Industrialization and Progressive Reform in 1920s America

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The beginning of the 1920s brought forth a major increase in American population. This rapid growth was the product of industrialization and migration. During this period, progressive reforms were happening in all areas of society. Although this sudden increase in urbanization proved to be problematic for many Americans. However, many of these changes were brought on by average citizens. Industrialization contributed to grow in American cities across the nation. Advancements in manufacturing meant people moving to cities in record numbers. This changed American life by widening the gap between rich and poor. “.... Atlanta was the poorest lighted city of her size in the country but this evening the bands of darkness will be broken, and a flood Poverty had worsened with the swelling of migrants. “Within the narrow limits of one-half square mil were crowded together thirty-five thousand people, living tier upon tier, huddled together until the very heavens seemed to be shut out (H).” However, “They would institute all necessary measures to stamp out unnecessary disease and to prevent unnecessary death (H).” Americans responded with reform of the boss system. “... the manager of the street railway went to the boss, and the street department became reasonable...And now for ten years there has been a district movement among the American people (I).” Journalism impacted the progress of reform in corrupt business such as the factory inspector. “While the Smoke Inspector will claim his work has made a change, it is probably the moral suasion of the newspaper agitation that has been the direct cause of the measure of reform… Industrialization brought about technological advancement which would change the lives of citizens. For example in New York was the creation of the sewer system. Migration to the north from the south was to find employment and the glamourous life. However many African Americans still faced hostility and women left home to either live in the fame or be consumed by the truth of the city. Progressive reform came about through the end of the boss-manager system in urban society. Yet, poverty worsened with the influx of citizens from around the nation and basic living suffered. Largely changed by reformers of the decades, journalism fought to showcase to the public the corruption in certain areas of

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