Progressivism Essay

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Brey Jackson American History, Section 1 Mr. Sacerdote 5/17/2014 The Rise of Progressivism in the Early 20th Century Before the Progressive era, the Gilded Age was the era that came first. During the Gilded Age, it transformed an agrarian society into an urban society that was predominantly industrial corporations. Although the Gilded Age may have appeared to be a time of economic expansion, behind closed doors, it was evident that corruption, scandal, and a terrible leadership tainted the Gilded Age. After the death of President William McKinley in September 1901, the Gilded Age had come to an end and had been replaced with a new system of political and social thought: progressivism. In addition, it was also time for a new leader to be active behind this social movement. His name was Theodore Roosevelt. Progressivism is the term that applies to the economic and social problems as well as the quick industrialization that was introduced to America. At first, progressivism began as a social reform but later it became a political reform. People were moving away from the farms and into the already over-populated cities. Also, there were immigrants in abundance from Europe who, as well, populated the cities. It was the immigrants who introduced progressivism, which was popular in Europe due to the Enlightenment. Progressives sought to bring about a positive change through social organization and economic justice. Progressives thought that the many issues in society (poverty, violence, racism, etc…) could be properly addressed by providing a good education and a safe environment. Jane Addams was an important figure during the progressive era. For her, she believed that personal action will help in the search for solutions to the socia... ... middle of paper ... ...on’s reign as mayor, he fought for fair taxation and municipal ownership over the streetcar industry and public utilities. Through his usage of the initiative, referendum, and recall, it allowed the voters to have an undeviating say in legislative and judicial issues as he wanted a greater and better democracy. In Wisconsin, Robert M. La Follette took advantage of the grassroots movement for reform in order to launch his lengthy political career, first as a governor (1901-1905) then a United States senator (1906-1925). As governor, La Follette lowered railroad rates, raised railroad taxes, improved education, preached conservation, established factory regulation and workers’ compensation, and inaugurated the first state income tax. After President William McKinley’s death in September of 1901, Vice President Theodore Roosevelt took upon the position as President.

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