History Ch. 6

Summary:

Political Leaders of the Progressive Era

Theodore Roosevelt

  • Became the youngest U.S. President at age 43 in 1901 after McKinley’s assassination.

  • Known for his vibrant personality and robust advocacy for reform.

  • Famous quotation: “Speak softly and carry a big stick,” reflecting his foreign policy approach.

  • Accomplishments:

    • Elkins Act (1903): Imposed fines on railroads for offering preferential treatment to certain shippers.

    • Hepburn Act (1906): Enhanced the authority of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) to regulate railroad rates.

William Howard Taft

  • Succeeded Roosevelt in 1908 but had differing views leading to conflict.

  • Actions taken:

    • Mann-Elkins Act (1910): Expanded federal authority over telecommunications.

  • Roosevelt's response to Taft’s administration:

    • Announced a return in the 1912 election with a string agenda termed New Nationalism, establishing the Bull Moose Party.

Woodrow Wilson

  • Wilson’s Election

    • 1912 Presidential Election Results:

      • Democratic Party: Woodrow Wilson received 435 electoral votes, winning a significant majority.

      • Bull Moose Party: Theodore Roosevelt finished with 88 electoral votes.

      • Republican Party: William Howard Taft secured 8 electoral votes.

      • Popular Vote Totals: Wilson (6.2 million), Roosevelt (4.1 million), Taft (3.4 million).

  • Wilson’s Reforms

    • Federal Reserve Act (1913): Established a regional banking system for national liquidity and financial stability.

Tragedies and Safety Concerns

  • The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire (1911):

    • Resulted in the deaths of 146 workers, many of whom were young women.

    • The tragedy accentuated the need for improved worker safety regulations, becoming a significant focal point for Progressive reformers.

Political Action and Reforms

  • 17th Amendment (1913):

    • Established direct election of U.S. Senators by the people, changing the previously indirect method of election through state legislatures.

  • Direct Democracy Enhancements:

    • Initiative: Empowered citizens to propose legislation directly.

    • Referendum: Allowed voters to decide on laws already passed or considered.

    • Recall: Enabled voters to remove public officials through a petition.

Women's Suffrage and Alcohol Abuse

  • This led to significant legislative changes:

    • 18th Amendment (1919): Established Prohibition.

    • 19th Amendment (1920): Granted women the right to vote.