Feminism and Progressive Era Notes

I. Feminism
A. Definition
1. Advocacy of women's rights based on the equality of the sexes.
2. Evolution through multiple waves addressing different rights and freedoms.
3. Example: Inclusion of women in modern art history textbooks.

II. Urbanization and Political Machines (1870-1900)
A. Urban population growth in the U.S.
1. Almost doubled due to immigration and high birth rates.
2. Major cities like New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia expanded rapidly.
B. Rise of political machines
1. Gained control of city governments.
2. Provided services to urban poor and immigrants in exchange for loyalty.
3. Corruption through reliance on networks of supporters.
4. Progressive push for electoral reforms to dismantle political machines.
5. Diversity of opinions within the progressive movement.

III. Origins and Components of the Progressive Movement
A. Theories of Freedom
1. Redefinition associating freedom with economic independence.
2. Influence of Fordism promoting mass consumption and efficiency.
3. Consequences of standardization and loss of individuality.
B. Specific Problems
1. Wealth Gap: Unequal distribution of wealth.
2. Big Business Issues: Exploitation and hazardous working conditions.
3. Free Motherhood: Lack of reproductive rights and autonomy.
4. Inadequate Wages: Insufficient income to meet basic needs.
5. Crowding in Cities: Overpopulation exacerbating living conditions.
6. Immigration Challenges: Difficulties integrating diverse populations.
7. Political Corruption: Lack of accountability undermining public trust.

IV. Labor and Women's Movements
A. Challenging 19th-century definitions of freedom
B. Emergence of "New Feminism"
1. Demands for greater liberty, sexual autonomy, and reproductive rights.
2. Importance of controlling one’s time for true freedom.
C. Oregon System: Empowering citizens to propose legislation.

V. Settlement Houses
A. Built in poorer neighborhoods to offer social services, education, and recreational activities.
B. Role in immigrant integration and social reforms.

VI. Progressivism: Democratic and Anti-Democratic Impulses
A. Democratic Elements
1. Assisting the underprivileged.
2. Strengthening child labor laws.
B. Anti-Democratic Aspects
1. Racist motivations behind anti-child labor sentiment.
2. Exclusion of African American communities from benefits.

VII. Industrial Workers of the World (IWW)
A. Radical labor organization seeking inclusivity of all workers.
B. Advocacy for better working conditions and labor rights.

VIII. Mary Mother Jones
A. Prominent labor activist jailed for supporting striking workers.
B. Symbol of freedom of speech struggle in the labor movement.

IX. Women’s Clubs
A. Gatherings facilitating social change and reform advocacy.
B. Focus on suffrage, education, and public health initiatives.

X. Socialism and Progressivism
A. Deep ties between progressivism and socialist ideologies.
B. Advocacy for public ownership and labor rights.
C. Peak influence of the Socialist Party in 1912.

XI. Progressivism Defined
A. Political philosophy and social reform movement aimed at public good.
B. Government intervention to address social and economic issues.

XII. Corruption and Big Business
A. Interlinked nature of corruption in government and business influence.
B. Need for reforms to ensure accountability.

XIII. Policies of Roosevelt, Taft, and Wilson
A. Varying commitment to progressive reforms.
1. Roosevelt: Diverse approach including conservation.
2. Taft: Conservative focus on regulation.
3. Wilson: Emphasis on government assistance for people.

XIV. Pure Food and Drug Act (1906)
A. Landmark regulation for food and medicine safety.
B. Prohibitions on hazardous additives and false labeling.

XV. Underwood Tariff
A. Aimed to reduce tariffs and promote free trade.
B. Balance between Hamiltonian means and Jeffersonian freedoms.