A Time of Reform: Progressive Era
The Progressive Era studies the period of widespread social activism and political reform in the United States from the 1890s to the 1920s, a time of addressing industrialization’s challenges. It explores efforts to combat corruption, improve working conditions, expand rights, and regulate big business, driven by activists and leaders aiming to create a more equitable society during rapid modernization.
Timeline of Progressive Era
This section outlines the key phases of the Progressive Era. Here’s the breakdown:
- Early Activism (1890s-1900s): Initial movements addressing social and economic inequalities.
- Political Reforms (1900s-1910s): Changes in governance and laws to curb corruption and expand democracy.
- Social Reforms (1900s-1920s): Efforts to improve living conditions, education, and rights.
- End of the Era (1920s): Transition as reforms faced challenges and focus shifted post-World War I.
Key Figures and Events
This section highlights the main individuals and pivotal moments that shaped the Progressive Era:
- Theodore Roosevelt (1901-1909): U.S. President, pushed trust-busting and conservation policies.
- Muckrakers (1900s): Journalists like Upton Sinclair exposed corruption and spurred reform.
- Jane Addams (1889-1920s): Founded Hull House, championed social welfare for the poor.
- Sherman Antitrust Act Enforcement (1902): Roosevelt used it to break up monopolies like Northern Securities.
- 19th Amendment (1920): Granted women the right to vote after decades of activism.
- Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire (1911): A deadly fire in NYC led to workplace safety reforms.
Examples of Progressive Era
Early Activism (1890s-1900s) Examples
- Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle (1906) exposed meatpacking industry horrors, prompting food safety laws.
- Ida Tarbell’s articles on Standard Oil revealed monopolistic practices, fueling anti-trust sentiment.
- Settlement houses like Hull House in Chicago provided education and support for immigrants.
Political Reforms (1900s-1910s) Examples
- The 17th Amendment (1913) allowed direct election of U.S. Senators by the public.
- Wisconsin under Robert La Follette introduced the first primary elections in 1903.
- The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 regulated food safety and drug labeling.
Social Reforms (1900s-1920s) Examples
- Child labor laws, like the Keating-Owen Act of 1916, restricted work for children under 14.
- The Women’s Suffrage Movement culminated in the 19th Amendment, empowering women.
- Prohibition, enacted by the 18th Amendment in 1919, banned alcohol to address social issues.
End of the Era (1920s) Examples
- The Red Scare of 1919-1920 shifted focus to anti-communism, slowing progressive momentum.
- Warren G. Harding’s “return to normalcy” in 1920 prioritized business over reform.
- Some reforms, like Prohibition, faced backlash, leading to its repeal in 1933.