Reasons for Progressive Refor m

1. Reasons for Progressive Reform • Reasons for Progressive Reform • A) Powerful political machines were restricting people’s livelihoods • B) An economic boom in the 1890’s • C) Civil unrest and violence • D) Unhealthy and unsafe working conditions • E) Unsanitary and unsafe working conditions • F) An increased hours to meet demand

2. Reasons for Progressive Reform • Reasons for Progressive Reform • G) Large numbers of new immigrants • H) Urban housing, crime, congestion, and pollution, bad sanitation • I) Corruption on all levels of Govt. • J) Abuse of the nation’s political system

3. Reasons for Progressive Reform • 2) Who were the progressives? • A) Characteristics: largely native born upper or middle class • Educated professionals (business people, lawyers, social workers, doctors, teachers • Allied with populist farmers • B) Beliefs and Goals: Optimists • Abuses of power by Govt. and business can be ended • Reform and initiative could improve U.S. economy • Direct primary, non colored ballots, 19th amendment

4. Reasons for Progressive Reform • 3) Enemies of the Progressive Era • A) It’s natural that there are people of wealth and power in society • B) Don’t mess with what is regulated by the force of nature • 4) Factors helping the Progressive Movement • A) Progressivism became trendy • B) The mvmt started in cities, which made communication easier • C) Telephone and telegraph made communication easier • D) Wisconsin Idea – Robert LaFollette