US History - Unit 5 - Progressive Era (1890-1920)

Progressive Movement

A reform movement from the 1890s–1920s that aimed to fix problems caused by industrialization, urbanization, and political corruption. Progressives pushed for safer working conditions, limits on big business, and expanded democracy through reforms like initiative, referendum, and the direct election of senators.

Muckrakers

Journalists in the early 1900s who exposed corruption, unsafe working conditions, and social problems. Their writing led the public to demand government reforms. Famous muckrakers include Upton Sinclair, Ida Tarbell, and Jacob Riis.

Theodore Roosevelt

Progressive president (1901–1909) known for the “Square Deal,” trust-busting, and conservation policies. He pushed for regulations on big business and created national parks and forests. Roosevelt also supported consumer protection laws after reading The Jungle.

The Jungle

A 1906 novel by Upton Sinclair that exposed unsafe and unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry. Public outrage from the book led directly to the Pure Food & Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act. Its goal was to show the struggles of immigrant workers.

Tenement House Act

A 1901 New York law that required safer, healthier apartment buildings for poor and immigrant families. It mandated indoor plumbing, windows for ventilation, and fire safety features. It was an early example of government regulation for public health.

Prohibition

A nationwide ban on the manufacture, sale, and transport of alcohol (1920–1933) created by the 18th Amendment. Reformers believed alcohol caused social problems like crime and family violence. Prohibition led to speakeasies, organized crime, and eventually repeal by the 21st Amendment.

Harrison Act

The 1914 law (Harrison Narcotics Tax Act) that regulated and taxed the sale of opiates and cocaine. It marked one of the first federal drug-control laws in U.S. history. The act increased government oversight of medicine and pharmacies.

Pure Food & Drug Act

1906 law that required accurate labels on food and medicine and banned harmful additives. Passed largely because of public reaction to The Jungle. It created the foundation for the modern FDA.

Child Labor Laws

Progressive-era reforms that limited or banned child labor in dangerous industries. These laws aimed to protect children’s health and ensure access to education. National child labor standards were later strengthened by the Fair Labor Standards Act (1938).

National Forest Service

Founded in 1905 under Theodore Roosevelt to manage and protect federal forest lands. It promoted conservation, scientific forestry, and sustainable resource use. The agency helped preserve millions of acres of land for future generations.