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The Progressive Era: An Overview

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The Progressive Era was a transformative period in American history, marked by social and political reforms from the 1890s to the 1920s. It addressed issues like political corruption, economic inequality, labor conditions, and corporate power. Key achievements included the Seventeenth and Nineteenth Amendments, the establishment of the Federal Reserve, and the introduction of child labor laws. Influential figures like Theodore Roosevelt and Jane Addams led the movement, which also saw the rise of muckraking journalism.

The Progressive Era: An Overview

The Progressive Era, which lasted from the 1890s to the 1920s, was a pivotal time in American history when widespread social and political reforms were enacted in response to the problems caused by rapid industrialization and urbanization. Reformers, known as Progressives, were typically from the middle class and sought to address issues such as political corruption, economic inequality, labor conditions, and the unregulated power of corporations, also known as trusts. They advocated for a range of changes, including the promotion of direct democracy, the application of scientific principles to governance, the enhancement of efficiency in industry and public administration, and the professionalization of various fields. The movement also saw the rise of investigative journalism, or "muckraking," which exposed societal problems and galvanized public support for reforms.
Lively early 20th century street scene with people in period clothing, speaker on wooden crate and vintage transportation.

Political Reforms and the Expansion of Democracy

The Progressive Era was characterized by significant political reforms aimed at expanding democracy and curbing the influence of powerful interests in government. Progressives introduced measures such as the secret ballot, direct primaries, the direct election of senators through the Seventeenth Amendment, and the establishment of initiative, referendum, and recall processes. The Nineteenth Amendment, granting women the right to vote, was a landmark achievement of the era, reflecting the belief that women's suffrage would lead to a more ethical and responsive government. The creation of the Federal Reserve System in 1913 was another major reform, designed to stabilize the economy and regulate the banking industry. Efforts to dismantle political machines and break up monopolies resulted in legislation like the Sherman Antitrust Act and the Clayton Antitrust Act, promoting fair competition and consumer protection.

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00

The ______ Era spanned from the 1890s to the 1920s, marking significant reforms in American society due to the challenges posed by swift industrial and urban growth.

Progressive

01

During this era, there was a push for ______ democracy, the use of scientific methods in governance, increased efficiency in industry, and the rise of ______ journalism to uncover and address societal issues.

direct

investigative

02

Significance of the Seventeenth Amendment

Allowed direct election of senators, reducing corruption and state legislature influence.

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