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The Progressive Era marked a period of significant reforms across various states, with Wisconsin leading in primary elections, workers' compensation, and state income tax. Ohio's municipal reforms introduced the city manager system, while Kansas saw a blend of progressivism and populism. Iowa's 'Iowa Idea' brought about railway regulation and women's suffrage. These state-level initiatives collectively shaped national policies and social standards.
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Robert M. La Follette and Governor Francis E. McGovern were key leaders in the progressive movement in Wisconsin
Statewide Primary Election System
Wisconsin implemented the nation's first comprehensive statewide primary election system as part of their progressive reforms
Workers' Compensation Law
Wisconsin also passed a pioneering workers' compensation law to protect workers' rights
Progressive State Income Tax
The implementation of a progressive state income tax aimed to create a more equitable tax system in Wisconsin
The progressive reforms in Wisconsin aimed to enhance democratic engagement, provide protections for workers, and create a more equitable tax system
The "Wisconsin Idea" aimed to apply the expertise of the University of Wisconsin faculty to state governance and public policy
UW-Extension System
The UW-Extension system extended educational resources to the state's farming communities in Wisconsin
Contributions from University Economists
University economists, such as John R. Commons and Harold Groves, played a key role in creating the first unemployment compensation program in the United States and developing the Social Security Act of 1935
The close ties between the university and state government in Wisconsin were criticized for resulting in overregulation and a shift away from undergraduate education towards advanced research
Progressivism and populism were two separate political movements in Kansas with different constituencies and goals
Despite their differences, both movements in Kansas shared a common goal of addressing corruption and monopolistic trusts
As the 20th century progressed, some former Populists in Kansas began to support progressive reforms, suggesting an ideological convergence between the two movements
Ohio was a hotbed for municipal reform, with cities like Toledo, Cleveland, Columbus, and Dayton leading the charge
The middle class in Ohio supported reforms targeting the monopolistic practices of private transit companies
The advocacy of John Patterson, CEO of National Cash Register, for a city manager form of government marked a significant shift towards prioritizing administrative efficiency and expertise over political influence in city governance