Module 6 progressive era

Continuing discussion of Theodore Roosevelt's presidency, focusing on domestic issues rather than expansionism and imperialism.

Theodore Roosevelt comes from significant wealth, making him a unique politician in the early 20th century.
- Unlike other politicians who could be influenced by wealthy industrialists, Roosevelt's personal wealth limits this influence.
- Business leaders express concern over how Roosevelt would manage regulation and governance following his ascension to the presidency in 1901.

Overview of the Anthracite Coal Strike occurring in 1902.
- Coal workers go on strike due to lack of wage increases, long hours, and dangerous working conditions.
- The strike escalates into a national coal shortage, impacting schools and hospitals and causing significant public concern.
- In response, Roosevelt meets with mine owners to ascertain the reasons behind the strike.
- Mine owners respond derogatorily, saying, "the miners don't suffer. They can't even speak English."
Roosevelt's real concern is the public's reaction to the coal shortage and its effects on his popularity.

In 1902, Roosevelt threatens to militarize coal mining operations if negotiations are not facilitated between mine owners and workers.
- He considers sending the U.S. Army into mines to extract coal, an act that raises legal and constitutional questions about government intervention in private business.
- Roosevelt famously states, "to hell with the constitution when the people want coal," indicating his belief in a flexible interpretation of the Constitution.
The threat is sufficient to compel mine operators to negotiate with workers, marking a shift in the relationship between business and government.
By the end of the anthracite coal crisis, Roosevelt establishes himself as a "people's president," advocating for the workers.

Progressive movement largely consists of middle and upper-class college-educated Americans, particularly women.
- These individuals become involved in community issues despite not being able to vote.
The goals of the progressives include:
- Addressing crime and vice (e.g., prohibition movements).
- Advocating for improved public utilities and trash collection.
- Enhancing the social conditions of urban environments.
The middle and upper-class progressives desire to reclaim urban spaces for themselves and take active roles in politics and reform.

Progressives hold a strong belief in the potential for societal improvement through democracy and civic engagement.
- They advocate for federal regulations to standardize approaches to education, infrastructure, environmental conservation, and public health.
- Today, many educational and public health standards derive from these early progressive ideals, such as core curricula and the establishment of public health organizations (e.g., CDC).

Muckrakers are journalists who expose social ills through writing and investigative reporting, igniting public awareness of corruption and injustice.
- Roosevelt initially disapproves of muckrakers, viewing their approach as focused on highlighting problems without suggesting solutions.
- The term "muckraker" is used derogatorily but is embraced by journalists who see themselves as stirring up awareness.
Muckrakers begin writing in serial formats (ongoing articles) to maintain public engagement over time, targeting affordable publications.

Jacob Riis is known for his influential work, "How the Other Half Lives."
- The book provides impactful photographs and commentary on conditions faced by the poor in urban areas, including child homelessness and living situations in tenements.
Criticisms of muckrakers include the notion that they diagnose problems effectively but often lack clear remedies. Still, their aim is to inspire reform through the awareness of these issues.

The emergence of social work as a profession largely stemmed from educated women wanting to make a difference, despite societal restrictions on their careers.
- Jane Addams and Ellen Star establish Hull House in Chicago, addressing immigrant needs through education, health services, and daycare for children.
- Hull House represents a model for settlement houses across the country.
Photos of community efforts show women aiding children and focusing on basic health and hygiene to reduce high child mortality rates.

The muckraker Lewis Hine develops a systematic approach to documenting worker conditions, collecting vital statistics to support reform.
Hine's documentation becomes critical for advocating changes and presenting substantial evidence to policymakers.

Concerns about food safety grow during the period, particularly regarding unregulated practices in food production.
- Notable examples include the adulteration of milk and meat to preserve products for sale, leading to public outrage.
Upton Sinclair's work "The Jungle" highlights horrific conditions in meatpacking plants and instigates change, contributing to the Pure Food and Drug Act.

Roosevelt's presidency is notable for his progressive reforms, culminating in significant legislative impacts by the time he leaves office in 1908.
- Roosevelt opts to support William Howard Taft as his successor due to their past collaborative work.
Taft, although initially supportive, struggles with the demands of the presidency and is overshadowed by Roosevelt's larger-than-life persona.

In 1911, a devastating fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory leads to the deaths of 146 workers, highlighting the urgent need for labor reform.
- The factory's negligence in safety protocols and locked exits serves as a catalyst for public outrage and pushes for regulatory changes.

Following his presidency, Roosevelt becomes dissatisfied and forms the Progressive Party to challenge Taft and Wilson in the 1912 election.
- His dramatic candidacy includes surviving an assassination attempt during a campaign speech, securing national attention.
The split in the Republican vote between Roosevelt and Taft ultimately aids Woodrow Wilson's victory as the candidate of the Democratic Party.

Wilson's presidency brings disillusionment as he fails to uphold progressive ideals, creating a shift in the political landscape moving forward.
The progressive movement experiences decline amidst the challenges posed by World War I, marking a pivotal moment in American political history which will be discussed in the next lecture.