Heimler's History: The Progressive Era

Overview

• The Progressive Era was a period of widespread social activism and political reform across the United States, spanning the 1890s to the 1920s.
• The main aim was to address problems arising from industrialization, urbanization, immigration, and political corruption.

Key Goals of the Progressive Reform Movement

• Addressing Big Business: Limiting the power of large corporations and trusts.
• Economic Stability: Dealing with economic challenges post-Panic of 1893.
• Labor Conflicts: Resolving disputes between labor groups and employers.
• Political Machines: Reducing the influence of political machines on urban life.
• Civil Rights: Tackling Jim Crow laws and women's suffrage.
• Social Issues: Addressing alcohol consumption, sanitation, and living conditions.

Who Were the Progressives?

• A diverse group including Protestant leaders, feminists, labor leaders, and African Americans.
• They shared the belief that government intervention was necessary for societal change.

Muckrakers: The Journalists of the Progressive Era

• Role: Exposing corruption and social issues through investigative journalism.
• Key Figures:
  • Upton Sinclair: Exposed the meatpacking industry in "The Jungle."
  • Ida Tarbell: Critiqued Standard Oil and John D. Rockefeller.
  • Jacob Riis: Photographed poor living conditions in "How the Other Half Lives."

Expansion of Democracy

• Secret Ballot: Introduced to prevent voter manipulation by political bosses.
• 17th Amendment: Allowed direct election of senators to reduce influence of big business.
• 18th Amendment: Prohibition of alcohol (noted as largely unsuccessful later).
• 19th Amendment: Granted women the right to vote in 1920.
• Legislative Reforms:
  • Initiative: Voters could propose legislation.
  • Referendum: Voters could approve or reject laws.
  • Recall: Allowed voters to remove officials from office before term end.

Efficiency in Government

• Frederick Taylor's Scientific Management: Advocated for efficient factory and government work processes.

Racial Equality Efforts

• Plessy v. Ferguson: Legalized "separate but equal" doctrine.
• Niagara Movement & NAACP:
  • Aimed to end segregation and improve educational opportunities.

Progressivism on the National Stage

• Teddy Roosevelt:
  • Became president after McKinley's assassination.
  • Square Deal: Balanced interests of businesses and labor.
  • Trust Busting: Differentiated between "good" and "bad" trusts.
  • Consumer Protection:
    • Pure Food and Drug Act & Meat Inspection Act: Promoted food safety.
  • Conservation: Reserved land for preservation.

Conclusion

• The Progressive Era was marked by significant reforms and an increase in government intervention to address societal ills.
• Progressives sought to restore democratic principles and ensure fair economic and social conditions for all citizens.