Let the Progressives Run the Show - Part 1

Why did America become an informal empire by the turn of the 20th century?

America inherited territories from the Spanish-American War of 1898.

What did the U.S. take advantage of in the early 20th century?

The U.S. took advantage of its new territories to further expand in various aspects of life.

Why did some Americans oppose imperialism?

They believed imperialism was harmful and went against American values.

Why did the U.S. suddenly embrace a new wave of reform in the early 20th century?

There were many unaddressed issues that arose with the rise of industrialization.

How did investigative journalism contribute to the rise of Progressivism?

Investigative journalism exposed corruption and social ills, which encouraged reform.

Who participated in Progressivism?

Men, women, politicians, African Americans, workers, and religious groups.

How did Progressivism change American politics and business?

It led to reforms aimed at government corruption, labor rights, and social justice.

What was Progressivism a response to?

It was a response to the long-standing issues caused by industrialization and corruption in government.

What were the key features of Progressivism?

Democracy, Efficiency, Anti-Trust Regulation, Social Justice, Religion, and Prohibition.

What was the main goal of Progressivism regarding government?

To remove corruption and introduce reforms like the direct primary and the 17th Amendment.

How did Progressives aim to improve efficiency?

They wanted to make government and business run more efficiently through specialists and technical expertise.

What was the focus of anti-trust regulation in Progressivism?

To regulate big corporations and reduce their influence over the economy and government.

What did the social justice movement promote?

It promoted justice for all aspects of social life through nonprofit organizations and legislation.

How did religion play a role in Progressivism?

Religious groups applied humanitarian principles to social movements and supported reform efforts.

What were the Prohibition efforts in Progressivism?

They aimed to oppose alcohol abuse and remove corrupt political influence from saloon culture.

What event catalyzed the rise of Progressivism?

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911, which rallied people to call for reform.

What other movements influenced Progressivism?

Populism, Mugwumps, and Socialism provided important influences, though they had differing views on reform.

How did journalists contribute to Progressivism?

They exposed social problems through investigative journalism, calling for reform.

Who were the "muckrakers" in the Progressive era?

Journalists who exposed corruption in politics, business, and society.

What was the main purpose of investigative journalism during Progressivism?

To expose corruption and societal issues, fostering public support for reform.

What role did the social gospel movement play in Progressivism?

It connected religion with social reform efforts, focusing on helping the working poor.

Who were key figures in the social gospel movement?

Washington Gladden, Charles Sheldon, and Walter Rauschenbusch.

What were the primary goals of the women’s suffrage movement?

To secure voting rights for women to address social issues.

How did women contribute to Progressivism?

Women advocated for social reform, participated in suffrage movements, and promoted child labor laws.

What was the role of settlement houses in the Progressive movement?

They brought together prosperous citizens with the working poor and provided social services.

Who was the most influential figure in the Settlement House movement?

Jane Addams, who established Hull-House in Chicago.

What were the main issues with child labor during the Progressive era?

Children worked long hours in dangerous conditions with little to no education or parental care.

How did women contribute to addressing child labor?

They promoted legislation to limit child labor, although many laws were easily bypassed.

What was the opposition to saloon culture during the Progressive era?

It aimed to remove alcohol abuse, political corruption, and the influence of saloons on poor communities.

What were some key organizations in the opposition to alcohol?

The Woman’s Christian Temperance Union, Prohibition Party, and Anti-Saloon League.

What was a major concern of the women’s suffrage movement in the early 20th century?

Women believed voting rights were necessary to resolve broader social issues.

Who was a significant leader in the women's suffrage movement?

Alice Paul, known for her militant tactics like hunger strikes and picketing.

What was the most significant event in the women's suffrage movement?

The picket strike at the White House on January 11, 1917, which gained public support for suffrage.