Progressivism Flashcards
What was Progressivism?
A reform movement (1890-1920) that aimed to regulate big business, address social issues, and introduce political reforms through government intervention
What were the main causes of Progressivism?
Economic problems: The 1893 recession led to unemployment, wage cuts, and bank collapses.
• Social problems: Overcrowding, poor sanitation, long working hours, and lack of welfare.
• Political corruption: ‘Robber Baron’ businessmen controlled politics and big business dominated Congress.
• Fear of revolution: Rising socialist and trade union movements led to fears of radical uprisings.
How did the media influence Progressivism?
Magazines like McClure’s and Collier’s exposed corruption and poor conditions, publishing muckraking articles that fueled public demand for reform.
What were the key political aims of Progressivism?
Direct election of senators (to reduce corruption).
• Women’s suffrage (the right to vote).
• More democratic elections for city mayors and public officials.
• Breaking control of political parties by wealthy businessmen.
How did Progressives want to regulate business?
End laissez-faire policies.
• More regulation of banks, insurance companies, and the stock market.
• Workers’ rights laws, including trade union recognition, work hour limits, and compensation for injuries.
• Consumer protection laws to prevent unsafe and fraudulent products.
How did Progressives aim to improve social conditions?
Female emancipation (National American Suffrage Association, 1890).
• Welfare reforms to help the poor and unemployed.
• Prohibition movement (Anti-Saloon League, 1893).
• Support for African Americans, many of whom faced poor living conditions in the North.
What was the role of the ‘Social Gospel’ in Progressivism?
A Christian movement that promoted helping the poor, supported by groups like the YMCA and Salvation Army.
Why did Progressives oppose big business?
Large corporations and trusts monopolized industries, fixing prices and reducing competition for their benefit while exploiting workers.
How did Progressives attempt to combat corruption?
They pushed for political reforms like the direct election of senators and open primary elections to limit elite control over candidates.
Why did some Americans fear revolution in the early 1900s?
Rising socialist and trade union movements led to violent strikes, such as the 1892 steelworkers’ strike in Pittsburgh, making the middle class support reform as a way to maintain social stability.
