The Progressive Era

THE PROGRESSIVE ERA

Industrialism, urbanization, and immigration brought many benefits to America but they also produced social problems. To help fix the problems produced by industrialism, urbanization and immigration a reform movement called Progressivism emerged during the 1890-1920's. The Progressive Era was a time in history when many people wanted to see improvement and reform, they believed new ideas and honest government could bring about social justice.

The people who made up the progressive movement came from all walks of life. They came from different political parties, social classes, ethnic groups, and religions. Many women came to the forefront during the Progressive Era and proved their value as social workers. Many progressive leaders emerged from the middle class. Dissatisfied industrial workers also joined the Progressive movement. So did a few wealthy Americans driven by a desire to act for the good of society. Many progressives were motivated by religion.

What the progressives shared in common was a belief that industrialization and urbanization had created troubling social and political problems. Progressives wanted to bring about reform that would correct these problems and injustices. They pushed their state legislators and the federal government to pass laws to address the problems faced by the poor.

Progressives wanted to use logic and reason to make society work in a more orderly way. They were angry over, industrial capitalism and urban growth. They wanted reform and believed change would be possible if they pushed the government to play a stronger role in controlling the economy and improving social and working conditions.

Some progressives believed that political reform was the most important. For many women, the number one goal was winning the right to vote. Others were worried about big businesses. Many industrialists had taken control over big businesses and raised prices. Many middle class progressives wanted the government to crack down on big businesses and create more economic opportunities for smaller businesses. Other progressive reformers sought to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor. Progressives attacked the harsh conditions endured by miners, factory workers and other laborers. They wanted better living conditions for the poor people living in the slums. They also wanted social welfare laws to help children.