Progressive Era Reforms and Impact

These flashcards cover key concepts, events, and figures from the Progressive Era in American history, as discussed in the lecture.

What were the core goals of the Progressive reform movement?

To build a better society by addressing issues caused by industrialization, immigration, and urbanization.

Which presidents were involved during the Progressive era?

Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, and Woodrow Wilson.

What did the term 'Muckrakers' refer to?

Investigative journalists who exposed corruption in politics and business.

What is the Social Gospel movement?

A belief that Christian faith should be expressed through good works, especially in caring for the poor.

Who wrote 'The Jungle' and what was its impact?

Upton Sinclair; it exposed the horrendous conditions in the meatpacking industry.

What political reform allowed voters to directly select their party's candidates?

Direct Primaries.

What was a significant political reform added with the 17th Amendment?

US Senators would be elected by popular vote instead of being chosen by state legislatures.

What was the purpose of the initiative process?

To allow voters to compel the legislature to consider a bill.

What did the referendum process enable citizens to do?

Vote on proposed laws printed on their ballots.

What did the recall process allow voters to do?

Remove a corrupt or unsatisfactory politician from office before their term ended.

What were some key municipal reforms advocated by Progressives?

Controlling public utilities and electing heads of city departments.

What was the Australian (secret) ballot system?

A voting method that ensured voters could mark their choices privately.

What did the Elkins Act (1903) provide regarding railroads?

Greater authority for the ICC to stop railroads from granting rebates.

What was the purpose of the Federal Reserve Act (1914)?

To create a national banking system with 12 district banks.

What did the Clayton Antitrust Act (1914) aim to enforce?

Strengthening of antitrust laws to break up monopolies.

What did the 19th Amendment achieve?

Granted women the right to vote.

Who was W.E.B. Du Bois?

An African American civil rights leader who advocated for equal rights and helped found the NAACP.

What was the role of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA)?

To campaign for women's suffrage and help women secure the right to vote.

Who were the primary supporters of the temperance movement?

Rural reformers who believed abolishing liquor would improve morals and politics.

What was significant about Theodore Roosevelt's Square Deal?

It aimed for fairness in all interests: labor, business, and consumers.

What did the Meat Inspection Act (1906) ensure?

Provided that federal inspectors visit meatpacking plants to ensure sanitation.

What did the Federal Trade Commission (1914) do?

Investigated and acted against any unfair trade practices.

What was the main objective of the NAACP?

To abolish all forms of segregation and increase educational opportunities for African Americans.

What did women like Margaret Sanger advocate for?

Birth control education and women's rights.

What was the Pinchot-Ballinger controversy?

The firing of Gifford Pinchot by Taft for criticizing Richard Ballinger's policies.

What was the purpose of the Newlands Reclamation Act (1902)?

To provide funds for irrigation projects in western states.

Who was Alice Paul?

A militant suffragist who formed the National Woman's Party and fought for women's voting rights.

What social welfare reforms were advocated by Progressives?

Better schools, juvenile courts, and safety regulations for tenements and factories.

What led to the rise of the Socialist Party during the Progressive Era?

The demand for more radical reforms and public ownership of essential services.

What was the primary criticism from Du Bois regarding Washington's approach?

He believed political and social rights were essential for economic independence.

What did the Child Labor Act (1916) prohibit?

Prohibited shipment of products manufactured by children under 14 in interstate commerce.

How did Roosevelt address the 1902 Coal Strike?

By threatening to use federal troops to take over the mines.

What was significant about the Payne-Aldrich Tariff (1909)?

It raised tariffs rather than lowered them as promised by Taft.

What were the 'Bad Trusts' and 'Good Trusts'?

Bad trusts harm the public; good trusts operate efficiently and maintain low prices.

What was a key outcome of the Progressive movement for African Americans?

The establishment of civil rights organizations that aimed for equality and social justice.

What is the significance of the League of Women Voters?

Organized to keep voters informed about candidates and issues.

What was the ultimate outcome of the Progressive Movement?

Significant social, political, and economic reforms, though many African Americans were still marginalized.