Type 1

• What is the biggest issue facing American society today? What should be done to address this problem?

The Progressive Era (1895-1914)

I. Historical Background

• 1896-1897 – America emerged from economic depression.

• Large social and political problems continued to plague American society.

• A group of largely middle-class men and women attempted to reform American society.

II. Origins of Progressivism• Not a unified

movement in any way.• No unifying agenda or

party• Progressive reforms

shared some critiques of American socialists.

• A few progressives remained socialist (Upton Sinclair).

• Progressivism was influenced by religious developments of the time.

• During this era, the Social Gospel movement flourished.

• Progressives were deeply impacted by the muckrakers.

III. The Goals of Progressives• Improve life experienced by

members of the lower classes.

• Change factory conditions to improve worker quality life.

• Reform city and state government.

• Women’s suffrage.• Regulate the meat industry.• Investigate and prosecute

illegal trusts.