Progressivism Flashcards
What is progressivism?
Progressivism: Movement expressing discontent and demands for social and political reform. Where populism was rural and regional, progressivism was national and middle class.
Why did Progressivism emerge in the 1890s?
Economic Problems: A recession struck in 1893 leading to high unemployment in industrial cities. Businesses cut wages to save profits which led to a fall in living standards. Banks collapsed and agriculture went
into decline.
Social Problems: Living conditions in many cities were poor with overcrowding, bad sewage disposal and no clean water. Working conditions were poor with a 6 day, 72 hour working week. No welfare system in the USA- no unemployment pay, sick pay or compensation.
What was the need for Political Reform?
Democrats were too conservative and the Republicans
were the party of big business and banks. Progressives opposed corrupt party machines and big business domination.
What was Big Business Regulation?
Big business established monopolies, fixed prices without fear of competition. There was opposition to robber barons and Progressives wanted government regulation.
How did Media Influence have to do with progressivism?
In the early 20th century there was an increase in newspaper and magazine circulation. In 1902, McClures magazine exposed political and business
corruption. Muckraking articles influenced public opinion due to the corruption.
