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What were the primary goals of the Progressive movement?

Progressives wanted the government to address problems caused by industrialization, such as corruption, unsafe working conditions, and the power of big businesses, while expanding democracy to give ordinary people more influence.

How did Progressives differ from earlier reformers?

Unlike earlier reformers, Progressives were highly successful in passing major laws and constitutional amendments to achieve their goals.

Pragmatism

A Progressive belief that encouraged experimenting with new ideas and retaining those that worked, rather than strictly following old dogmas.

Why did Progressives reject laissez-faire economics?

They believed that a hands-off approach allowed corporations to grow too powerful and unregulated, harming society.

Scientific Management

The use of efficiency studies to improve the operations of both factories and government systems.

Muckrakers

Journalists who exposed corruption, poverty, and unsafe working conditions to encourage public support for reform.

Specific Muckraker Examples

• Ida Tarbell: Exposed the Standard Oil Company.

• Lincoln Steffens: Revealed corruption in city governments.

• Upton Sinclair: Wrote The Jungle, exposing unsafe meatpacking conditions.

17th Amendment

A constitutional amendment that allowed voters to directly elect U.S. senators, increasing democratic participation.

Initiative, Referendum, and Recall

Political reforms that gave citizens more direct control over creating laws and removing politicians from office.

Triangle Shirtwaist Fire

A tragic industrial accident that prompted states to pass stricter factory safety laws.

Square Deal

Theodore Roosevelt's policy focused on balancing the needs of workers, consumers, and businesses fairly.

Woodrow Wilson's "New Freedom"

A program aimed at lowering tariffs, regulating banks, and limiting the power of monopolies.

Federal Reserve Act

A law that created a national banking system to help stabilize the U.S. economy.

Booker T. Washington vs. W. E. B. Du Bois

Washington focused on African American economic progress, while Du Bois demanded immediate civil rights and social equality.

19th Amendment

The constitutional amendment that granted women the right to vote.