6.1.1: the progressive era

the age of reform

 “A better America for all Americans”

  1. Definition:  

       1. Movement to improve American life by expanding democracy and achieving economic and social justice    2. use government as an agency of human welfare

  1. Objectives: 

       1. accepted and hailed the benefits of the machine age but sought to correct its evils and problems    2. began to look for ways to provide welfare & justice for everyone -  ALL Americans    3. restore the public’s belief in free enterprise and equality of opportunity – (American Dream was a myth not reality)

  1. Aims:

       1. Political Reform → wanted to restore control of government to the people    2.   Economic & Social Reform → correct the abuses in American life    3.   Restore Equality of Opportunity → sought business and labor reforms

who were progressives?

  • Unifying Characteristic:  CAUSE!!  (not ONE cause – just a Cause!)
  •  General Characteristics:    *  “SPIRIT” or “ATTITUDE” >> call to Action!!!   *  Cut across party lines – economic groups – classes – gender — race   * New middle class (young, educated professionals)
  • Central Belief: America should be a better place for all people

roots of the progressive movement

  • scientific investigation   * observation, experimentation, facts/truth
  • idealism (“high” principles)   * Abraham Lincoln widely considered the hero of the progressive movement
  • radical traditions   * politicians, radicals, socialists → writers: Lloyd, Veblen, Riss
  • religion   * Christianity, spread of the social gospel
  • feminists   * largely middle class, fought for gender equality and women’s suffrage
  • civil rights   * fight for equality of the races, black power and increased suffrage

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