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The Progressive Presidents. 1901-1921. Theodore Roosevelt 1901-1909. Republican Very energetic leader Used his personality to get what he wanted Loved the presidency Believed an individual could have a big impact. Theodore Roosevelt. Domestic Policies Square Deal
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The Progressive Presidents 1901-1921
Theodore Roosevelt1901-1909 • Republican • Very energetic leader • Used his personality to get what he wanted • Loved the presidency • Believed an individual could have a big impact
Theodore Roosevelt • Domestic Policies • Square Deal • If the common people of society were being victimized by the 6 forces shaping 20th cent America, TR would see to it that they received a “square deal” • Term used to describe the various progressive reforms sponsored by TR • Progressive Reforms • Trust regulation • Better labor relations / working conditions • Conservation of land • 1906 Meat Inspection Act and Pure Food and Drug Act
William Howard Taft1909-1913 • Republican • More conservative • Pushed into the presidency • Did not like it or the spotlight • Was not a natural politician • Law background • Years after his presidency, he became Chief Justice of the Supreme Court • Only president to serve in these two roles • Proved to be a weak leader who, despite efforts to keep Progressive reforms alive, was overshadowed by TR
The 1912 Election • Prior to the election • Roosevelt becomes increasingly irritated with Taft’s policies as President • The once best friends became bitter rivals • The Republican party becomes fragmented • One side = Progressives (Bull Moose Party) • Other side = Conservatives • Election Candidates • William H. Taft – Republican • Theodore Roosevelt – Progressive • Woodrow Wilson – Democrat • Eugene Debs - Socialist
1912 Election And the winner is… Woodrow Wilson!
Woodrow Wilson1913-1921 • Democrat • Academic • 1st president to ever hold a Ph.D • Public viewed him as cold • But, was a great public speaker • Proponent of domestic affairs • However, his second term mostly dealt with foreign affairs
Woodrow Wilson • Domestic Policies • Tariff reduction • Trust busting • Federal Income Tax - 1913 • Lower tariff rates cause the government to look elsewhere for revenue • Provided revenue by taxing individual earnings and corporate profit • Federal Reserve • Helped to establish control over banking and regulate US currency