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Unit IX: Discontent and Reform |
| www.studenthandouts.com > U.S. History > Discontent and Reform |
The Progressive Era in United States history, roughly spanning from the late 19th century to the early 20th century (typically dated from the 1890s to the 1920s), was a period of significant social, political, and economic reform. It emerged as a response to the social and economic challenges brought about by industrialization, urbanization, and the rapid changes in American society during that time. Here are some key features and themes associated with the Progressive Era:
Social Reform: Progressives sought to address various social issues, including poverty, child labor, unsafe working conditions, and inadequate housing. They advocated for social justice and believed that government intervention and regulation were necessary to improve the lives of ordinary citizens. Political Reform: Progressives aimed to combat political corruption and inefficiency at all levels of government. They supported initiatives such as direct primaries, which allowed citizens to choose political candidates, and the initiative, referendum, and recall processes to give citizens more direct control over government decisions. Women's Suffrage: The Progressive Era played a crucial role in the women's suffrage movement. Activists like Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Alice Paul worked tirelessly to secure voting rights for women. The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, granting women the right to vote, was ratified in 1920. Trust-Busting: Progressives were concerned about the growing power of large corporations and monopolies, which they believed hindered competition and harmed consumers. President Theodore Roosevelt became known for his "trust-busting" efforts, using antitrust laws to break up monopolistic trusts and promote fair competition. Conservation: Environmental conservation became a prominent issue during the Progressive Era. Roosevelt established national parks, forests, and monuments, and he signed legislation such as the Antiquities Act of 1906, which allowed the president to designate protected areas. Education Reform: Progressives advocated for improvements in education, including compulsory attendance laws, standardized testing, and curriculum reforms. Leaders like John Dewey promoted more hands-on, experiential learning in schools. Consumer Protection: Progressives supported consumer protection laws to ensure product safety and fair business practices. The Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act of 1906 were early examples of legislation aimed at ensuring the safety and quality of food and pharmaceuticals. Labor Rights: Labor unions and workers' rights also gained momentum during this period. Labor activists like Eugene V. Debs and Samuel Gompers fought for better working conditions, higher wages, and collective bargaining rights. Civil Rights: While the Progressive Era made significant strides in various areas, it often fell short in addressing racial inequality. African Americans continued to face discrimination and segregation, and progress on civil rights issues was limited during this time. End of the Era: The Progressive Era began to wane after World War I, as the focus shifted to other issues. The conservative backlash of the 1920s marked the end of this reformist period. Overall, the Progressive Era was a complex and dynamic period in American history characterized by a wide range of social, political, and economic reforms aimed at making the United States a more just and equitable society. While not all progressive goals were fully achieved during this era, it laid the groundwork for many of the social and political reforms that would continue to shape the nation in the 20th century and beyond. |
| UNIT I: | Early America | UNIT IX: | Discontent and Reform | ||
| UNIT II: | Colonial Period | UNIT X: | War, Prosperity, and Depression | ||
| UNIT III: | American Revolution | UNIT XI: | New Deal and World War II | ||
| UNIT IV: | New National Government | UNIT XII: | Postwar America | ||
| UNIT V: | Westward Expansion | UNIT XIII: | Decades of Change | ||
| UNIT VI: | Sectional Conflict | UNIT XIV: | New Conservatism | ||
| UNIT VII: | Civil War and Reconstruction | UNIT XV: | Into the Twenty-first Century | ||
| UNIT VIII: | Growth and Transformation | UNIT XVI: | Polarization and Deglobalization |
| www.studenthandouts.com > U.S. History > Discontent and Reform |
