PROGRESSIVE PARTY Flashcards
How was economic problems a reason for progressive emergence ?
A recession in 1893, leading to high unemployment in industries cities which remained at 12% for the rest of the 1890s
Businesses cut wages to sustain profits which led to fall in living standards
Many banks collapsed during the recession which meant many people lost their savings
More agriculture continued to decline due to falling prices, small farmers on the north-east could not compete with the large scale of farming in the west.
How was social problems a reason for the emergence of the progressives
Many Americans lived in poverty, living conditions were terrible where there was crowding and inadequate sewage disposal and lack of clean water. Working conditions were often poor with no restrictions of working hour.
How was the need for political reform a reason for progressive emergence ?
There was growing dissatisfaction with the two main political parties
The republicans dominated congress and seemed to have become the party of big business and banks.
How was the need to regulate big business a reason for the emergence of the progressives ?
In the late 19th century, large business, particularly trusts, became so powerful that they threatened to establish monopolies in particular industries which meant they could fix prices without fear of competition
There was increasing hostility towards Rockefeller and Morgan and carnage who seemed to put their own profits before the interest of the masses
There was growing demand for government regulation to control big business especially trusts although progressives could not agree on how to control it
How is the media a reason for the emergence of the progressives movement ?
The press was a major role in exposing the Evils in American society. Beginning in 1902 with McClure’s magazine which exposed political and business corruption in most American cities
Political aims of the progressives
Allowing women to vote, and ensuring senators were more accountable by making them directly elected rather than being chosen by state legislatures
Much greater role of government in economy and in society, particularly big business regulation
The progressives wanted a more democratic system for electing mayors and other public officials.
Economic aims for progressive movement
Wanted government to play a much greater role in regulating business to ensure that it run in the interests of the whole community and not just a few rich individuals.
Wanted a new legislation which would ensure that employers recognised trade unions, regulated hours of work and provided compensation for injury at work as well as including schemes for unemployment .
Laws to provide consumer protection against adults red food which widespread at the time, rigged prices and monopolies
Wanted to change the currency and introduce silver coinage which progressives believed would help raise prices for farmers and reduce the power of trust and big business
Social aims for the progressives party
Female emancipation
Wanted the government to provide a safety net to help housing through welfare benefits
Wanted the abolition of alcohol. In 1893 the anti-saloon was created to get alcohol banned because of the harm it causes society.
Reforms to help African Americans who has been moved to the north to escape the poverty of the south
