The Era of Reform and the Gilded Age

1. The Era of Reform and the Gilded Age

2. Standard and Learning Target • History 4.2.1: I can understand how movements shaped Washington State History • Learning Target: I can describe how progressive reforms addressed the problems of the Gilded Age

3. Corruption in Business • Businesses often worked very closely with the government • Sometimes they abused their relationship • Bribes • Created Monopolies • One company owns the industry, there is no competition, so that company can charge whatever it wants for the goods/service it provides

4. Corruption in Politics • Political Machines were often run by a handful of powerful people to keep their power. • Tammany Hall • They did not serve people, they were interested in making money. • Adolph Krug, Seattle Treasurer • Helped people find jobs or housing, but expected money or votes in return • Spoils System

5. Rich vs. Poor • During the Gilded Age, several powerful/wealthy people emerged: • John D. Rockefeller • Andrew Carnegie • Most people were extremely poor • 5% of Americans controlled 95% of the nation’s wealth Andrew Carnegie John D. Rockefeller

6. The Progressive Movement • In the late 1800s-early 1900s, progressives were people who wanted to reform many of the nation’s problems, including: • Corruption • Economic problems • Societal problems • 4 amendments to the Constitution were made, including prohibition of alcohol, a federal income tax, women’s voting rights, and direct election of senators.

7. Political Reforms • In Seattle, voters created the Municipal League to end the spoils system • Nationwide, other reforms were adopted • Initiatives allowed citizens to propose laws through a petition (collecting signatures) • I-502, legalization of Marijuana • Referendums allowed citizens to vote on laws already passed by the legislature • R-74: Upholding Washington’s Gay Marriage Law • Recalls allowed citizens to remove elected officials from office • Seattle Mayor Hiram Gill, 1910

8. Business Reforms • Many utilities which had been privately owned were now owned by the state or local government. • Seattle Water Department • Work days shortened to 8 hours • Child labor reduced (eliminated in mining) • Children required to go to school • Minimum wage, Worker’s Compensation

9. Women’s Rights • In 1910, Washington became the 5th state to grant women suffrage, or the right to vote. • They could also hold public office and serve on juries. • Washington granted suffrage 10 years prior to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920.

10. Questions • What were 3 of the largest problems of the Gilded Age? Why do you think this? • What reforms of the progressive era fixed the problems you listed?