The Progressive Era

what was the progressive era?

a wave of reform across the US during the early 20th Century

name 3 some features of the background of the progressive era

• economic growth- Mechanisation, electricity, steel.

• demographic and urban growth- producing slums

• fears of corrupt practices from corporations and railroads

• trade unionism and strikes

What is laissez-faire economics

policy of minimum governmental interference in the economic affairs of individuals and society.

what were some frustraitions within the democrats and republicans

• fears they were more interested balancing their factions

• enjoying spoils and winning elections

• some branches of the electorate want alternatives

why did the populist challenge appeal to many farmers?'- especially out west

• feared falling prices for their produce due to over production and internal competition

• often annoyed by high rail fares

What year did the democrats win?

1892

what were some features of the 1892 peoples party?

• government ownership of raailroads

• graduated income tax

• secret ballot

• cut working hours

• reduce immigration

what year did democratic candidate for president pitch for populist votes/ and what was his name?

• 1896

• William J Bryan

Name 2 differences between populism and progressivism

• Populism was potent in a time of economic uncertainty (1893 Panic). Progressives were more associated with a time of prosperity (1900s)

• Populism more sectional (out west). Progressives were more national

Was progressivsm really one movement?

In actuality, a mixture of different actors…social workers (Jane Addams); writers (Henry George); academics (Edward Ross); Presidents (including Teddy Roosevelt, Taft & Wilson)

What were the progressives motives

Moral crusaders (including religiously observant & philanthropists) offended by socio-economic inequality, social strife & corruption? Seeking greater efficiency?

What were some reforms to local governments?

Towards commissions in urban centres. Use ‘experts’ to (theoretically) reduce political bias

define commissions

panel of experts who tried to generate political bias.

What were some reforms that Robert LaFollette (former govenor) made ?

• Regulation on railroads

• lobbies

• banks and working hours

• these are examples of progressive reform

what is the background of womens sufferage?

• there had been movements towards female enfranchisement in the west since the 1870s

• but they did not become national