Before the 1920s, the United States was a reconstituted nation with opposing views, interests, and ideas. As the pieces began to come together, tensions began to arise between those clinging to the past and those looking toward the future. Although each side has a different vision for America's future, both have had a significant impact on the arts, people, and way of life of the United States. In many parts of the United States, people expressed their thoughts of “modernization” through the arts. Sinclair Lewis was an American novelist and in Babbitt he portrayed the typical New American Man. His daily life is controlled by the superior beings around him; like priests and government officials. However, this new typical American has become more concerned with the materialistic goods around him. Lewis believed that a crisis was beginning in America due to this new lifestyle's reliance on materialistic goods as a replacement for the true joys of life. (Doc A) Others, on the other hand, see this new modernization as a positive point. In 1922, Joseph Stella created The Bridge, representing the advances in architectural innovations. Architecture had come a long way and these modern advancements were benefiting America as a whole. (Doc B) Also, the art of religion was changing. Sister McPherson championed the idea of ​​a happy and less fearful religious outlook. She described a possible vision of Heaven and all the beauty it would contain. It replaces the fear of sin and hell with a happier, more peaceful version of religion. (Doc I) Although many sided with Stella and Sister McPherson and their visions of the “new,” some, like Sinclair Lewis, believed that America was heading in the wrong direction. But the need for new attitudes is a... middle of paper ... to turn to. (Doc D) Some disagreements over lifestyle have even ended up in court. The case of Tennessee evolution showed the different opinions on evolution. The ideas of modern science were increasingly accepted, while traditional forms of religion struggled to retain their reigning power. This trial helped promote the idea that there is not just one correct interpretation of religion, but that it can nevertheless retain its importance in American life. (Doc C) These tensions continued to divide Americans over how their way of life should continue. During the 1920s, Americans expressed different visions of their future. Some wanted to continue with traditional methods, while others believed that modernizing our nation was the key to its success. As opinions became more openly expressed and attempted to impose themselves on each other, tensions grew between the two groups..