The Progressive Era: National and International Politics 1900-1920

Introduction to the Progressive Era (1900-1920)

This lecture shifts focus from the U.S. South and West ($1877-1900$) to national and international politics between $1900$ and $1920$. The primary focus is on how the government began to intervene more significantly in citizens' lives during this period, marking a departure from earlier laissez-faire approaches.

Defining Progressivism

Progressivism was a diverse collection of ideas and activities aimed at addressing societal problems in America between approximately $1890$ and $1920$. It was essentially an optimistic belief that society could be improved through government action and social reform. Progressives believed in the power of human reason and scientific methods to identify and solve the nation's ills. This movement emerged in response to the rapid industrialization, urbanization, and immigration of the late 19th century, which led to widespread social inequality, corruption, and economic instability. It was characterized by a desire to curb the power of large corporations and trusts, a push for greater democracy (including initiatives, referendums, and recalls), efforts to improve living and working conditions for the poor and working classes, a focus on moral reform such as temperance and women's suffrage, and a belief in efficiency and expertise in government and business. Key figures included Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, and many social reformers and advocates who sought to create a more just and orderly society by tackling issues like child labor, public health, and political corruption. They believed good government should be a tool for social betterment and economic regulation.