The Progressive Era 1900–1920

The Progressive Era (c.1900–1920) was a period of widespread social, political, and economic reform in the United States. Progressives sought to address the problems created by industrialisation, urbanisation, and political corruption — yet the movement was deeply contradictory, combining genuine democratic reform with racial exclusion, nativism, and moral paternalism.

Key Definition: Progressivism was a broad reform movement that sought to use government power to address social problems, regulate big business, combat political corruption, and improve living and working conditions. It drew support from the middle class, professionals, social workers, and some politicians.

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The Roots of Progressivism

Progressivism emerged from the convergence of several intellectual and social currents: