TOPIC 7.4 The Progressives

Progressive movement

A social and political reform movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States. Advocated for political, economic, and social reforms to address issues such as corruption, inequality, and poor working conditions. Led to the implementation of reforms like women's suffrage, labor rights, and consumer protection.

muckrakers

Journalists in the early 20th century who exposed corruption and social injustices through investigative reporting. They played a crucial role in bringing about political and social reforms.

Jacob Riis

Danish-American journalist and photographer known for his book "How the Other Half Lives." He exposed the living conditions of the poor in New York City during the late 19th century, advocating for social reform and inspiring change in urban housing policies.

Upton Sinclair

American writer and social reformer known for his novel "The Jungle" (1906). Exposed the harsh conditions of the meatpacking industry, leading to significant public outcry and the passing of the Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act in 1906.

Lincoln Steffens

an American journalist and muckraker who exposed political corruption in the early 20th century. He believed in the power of investigative reporting to bring about social change.

Ida Tarbell

Investigative journalist who exposed the unethical practices of Standard Oil Company, leading to the breakup of the company and the development of antitrust laws in the United States.

17th Amendment

1913- Allowed direct election of U.S. Senators. Increased democratic representation

initiative, referendum, recall

The process by which citizens can propose new laws, vote on existing laws, or remove elected officials from office. It empowers people to directly participate in the democratic decision-making process.

secret ballot

A voting method where the identity of the voter is kept anonymous, ensuring confidentiality and preventing coercion or influence.

Robert La Follette

Progressive politician and reformer from Wisconsin. Advocated for government regulation of big business

direct primary

A method of selecting political party candidates where voters directly choose the nominees, rather than party leaders. It allows citizens to have a more direct influence on the candidate selection process.

19^th Amendment

Granted women the right to vote in the United States in 1920

Sherman Antitrust Act

passed in 1890 to prevent monopolies and promote fair competition. It aimed to protect consumers and limit the power of large corporations by prohibiting anti-competitive practices, such as price-fixing and monopolistic mergers.

1906 Meat Inspection Act, Pure Food and Drug Act

Passed in 1906. Aimed to improve food safety. Led to creation of FDA

preservationists

Advocates for the protection and conservation of historical, cultural, and natural resources.

conservationists

Individuals who advocate for the protection and preservation of the environment, natural resources, and wildlife through sustainable practices and policies.

Clayton Antitrust Act of 1914

strengthened the Sherman Antitrust Act by prohibiting price discrimination, exclusive dealing, and tying contracts. It also legalized peaceful strikes and picketing, and exempted labor unions from antitrust laws. The act aimed to promote fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices in business.

Federal Reserve System

the central banking system of the United States. It regulates the country's monetary policy, supervises and regulates banks, and maintains the stability of the financial system.

16^th Amendment

income tax on individuals and corporations. This amendment significantly expanded the federal government's ability to generate revenue