Chapter 13 The Era of Progressive Reform

1890-1920

Section 1The Origins of Progressivism

The Progressive Movement was started by the middle class in response to the problems created by rapid industrialism and urbanization.

These problems included unsafe working conditions, unemployment, child labor, government corruption, poverty and more

What did they want?

Government needed to become more involved in addressing the nation’s problems.

Social Reformers

Jane Addams sought government regulation in the workplace

Some fought for suffrage, social welfare programs, for Black Rights and an end to political corruption

This movement was not united, but rather diverse

Muckrakers

Journalists that exposed the problems of society

T.R. gave them this name for digging up dirt and rotten things in society

Upton Sinclair

Wrote “The Jungle” exposing the meatpacking industry of Chicago with stories of rotten meat, rats, etc

Led to the Federal Meat Inspection Act and to the Pure Food and Drug Act

Ida Tarbell

Exposed Standard Oil

Jacob Riis

Wrote “How The Other Half Lives” exposing poverty in New York City by using photographs

Reform

State Direct PrimariesAllowed people to determine who willwin the nomination for the upcomingElection

Recall Election

Gave voters more of a say by allowing them to recall or “take back” an elected official after in office

Initiative and Referendum

Initiative gives voters the opportunity to propose a bill

Referendum allows voters to vote directly on a bill

BOTH GIVE PEOPLE MORE OF A SAY IN GOVERNMENT

Section 3

The Taft Presidency