Progressivism and Key Figures

These flashcards cover key concepts and figures related to Progressivism in America, focusing on their definitions and significance in the context of the early 20th century.

Progressivism

A movement in the early 20th century aimed at improving human welfare by fighting monopolies, corruption, inefficiency, and social injustice.

Muckraker

An investigative journalist who exposes corruption and scandals, a term coined by President Theodore Roosevelt.

Ida M. Tarbell

A muckraker known for her book 'History of the Standard Oil Company' which exposed the unethical practices of John D. Rockefeller.

Predatory Wealth

The pursuit of profit at any cost, often harming others in the process.

Conspicuous Consumption

The purchase of goods or services for the purpose of displaying wealth rather than fulfilling needs.

Reform Socialism

A type of socialism that seeks to improve capitalism by ensuring social justice, rather than overthrowing it entirely.

Urban Slums

Poor, overcrowded urban areas characterized by high levels of poverty and inadequate infrastructure.

Social Gospel

A religious movement that aimed to improve societal conditions to reflect Christian ideals, including the call for better housing and living conditions for the poor.

Teddy Roosevelt

The 26th President of the United States known for his progressive policies, focus on regulating corporations, and conservation efforts.

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire

A tragic event in 1911 that killed 146 garment workers, leading to increased attention to workplace safety regulations.

The Jungle

A novel by Upton Sinclair that exposed the unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry, leading to the Pure Food and Drug Act.

Lochner Era

A period in U.S. history (1897-1937) when the Supreme Court struck down many economic regulations based on the freedom of contract.

The Square Deal

The domestic program of Theodore Roosevelt that focused on consumer protection, control of corporations, and conservation of natural resources.

Ballinger-Pinchot Quarrel

A controversy during Taft's presidency over conservation policies, leading to a split between Taft and Roosevelt.

New Nationalism

The progressive political philosophy of Theodore Roosevelt advocating for strong regulatory measures to protect social justice.

New Freedom

Woodrow Wilson's platform that emphasized anti-trust modification, tariff reduction, and banking reform during his presidential campaign.

The Aldrich-Vreeland Act

A 1908 law that allowed national banks to issue emergency currency during financial crises.

Seventeenth Amendment

An amendment that established the direct election of U.S. Senators by popular vote.

City Manager Commission

A nonpartisan body that manages city government operations effectively, separating politics from administration.