Heimler's History: The Progressive Era

Introduction

• Focus on Unit 7 of the AP U.S. History curriculum, specifically the Progressive Era.
• Objective: Compare the goals and effects of the Progressive reform movement.

Who Were the Progressives?

• Diverse group with various aims:
  • Addressing big business power and economic uncertainties (e.g., Panic of 1893).
  • Labor conflicts and political machines.
  • Jim Crow segregation and women's suffrage.
  • Alcohol issues and more.
• Common belief:
  • Society was deteriorating.
  • Government intervention was necessary for correction.

Progressive Era Journalists (Muckrakers)

• Investigated social injustices and corruption.
• Notable Muckrakers:
  • Upton Sinclair: Exposed unsanitary meat packing conditions in "The Jungle."
  • Ida Tarbell: Critiqued Standard Oil and Rockefeller.
  • Jacob Riis: Illustrated poor living conditions in "How the Other Half Lives."

Expansion of Democracy

• Aimed to reduce political corruption and empower voters:
  • Secret Ballot: Voting privacy to prevent political boss influence.
  • 17th Amendment (1913): Direct election of senators by the people.
  • 18th Amendment: Prohibition of alcohol (led by women, Anti-Saloon League).
  • 19th Amendment (1920): Women's suffrage.
  • Legislative Reforms:
    • Initiative: Voters propose legislation.
    • Referendum: Voters decide on laws.
    • Recall: Remove corrupt politicians.

Making Government Efficient

• Frederick Taylor's Scientific Management:
  • Efficiency in factories to increase productivity and profits.
  • Idea extended to government efficiency.

Social Justice Among Races

• Segregation and racial issues:
  • Plessy v. Ferguson (1896): Legalized segregation.
  • Black Progressives and organizations:
    • Niagara Movement: Led by W.E.B. Du Bois for racial equality.
    • NAACP: Fought segregation and expanded education opportunities.

Progressivism on the National Stage

• Progressive Presidents, especially Teddy Roosevelt:
  • Square Deal: Balanced approach to business and labor interests.
  • Trust Busting: Distinction between good and bad trusts.
  • Consumer Protection:
    • Pure Food and Drug Act.
    • Meat Inspection Act.
  • Conservation Efforts:
    • Used Forest Reserve Act to protect 150 million acres.

Conclusion

• Progressive Era featured significant reforms across journalism, democracy, efficiency, social justice, and national policy.
• The era marked a shift from Gilded Age practices, empowering the public and involving the government in societal reforms.