The progressive era was a period of social, political, and economic reform that occurred in the United States from the 1890s to the 1920s. During this time, a wave of Progressivism swept through the country, as people sought to address a wide range of social issues and improve the lives of ordinary Americans.
One of the key drivers of the progressive movement was the rapid industrialization and urbanization that was taking place in the United States at the time. As more and more people moved from rural areas to cities in search of work, they faced a variety of new challenges, including poor working conditions, low wages, and inadequate housing. Progressives sought to address these problems through a variety of means, including lobbying for government intervention, organizing grassroots campaigns, and advocating for social and political change.
One of the key goals of the progressive movement was to bring about greater social justice and equality. Progressives worked to improve the lives of poor and working-class Americans through a variety of means, including supporting the creation of labor unions, advocating for the minimum wage, and pushing for better working conditions. They also worked to improve the lives of marginalized groups, such as women and African Americans, by fighting for suffrage and civil rights.
In addition to addressing social issues, progressives also sought to reform the political system and bring about greater accountability in government. They pushed for the direct election of Senators, the secret ballot, and the initiative, referendum, and recall, which allowed citizens to have a greater say in the political process. They also supported the creation of government agencies and regulatory bodies to oversee various industries and protect consumers.
Overall, the progressive era was a time of significant change and reform in the United States. Through the efforts of progressives, many important social and political reforms were achieved, and the lives of ordinary Americans were improved in significant ways. While there were certainly setbacks and challenges along the way, the progressive movement ultimately helped to lay the foundation for a more just and equitable society.