20th Century & Beyond

As Colorado entered the 20th century, technology became more advanced, buildings grew higher, and Colorado’s economy prospered, bouncing back after the panic of 1893. As the century progressed, however, the Great Depression and the two World Wars would greatly affect the lives of Coloradans.

By the second half of the century, Colorado entered an age of modernization, led by Federico Peña, Patricia Schroeder, and others. 20th Century Colorado also produced several well-known entertainers, such as actors Harold Lloyd, Douglas Fairbanks, and Hattie McDaniel; and musicians Glenn Miller and Judy Collins.

At the same time, men and women like Josephine Roche, Florence Rena Sabin, and Rudolfo “Corky” Gonzales fought for better lives for all Coloradans.