Progressivism
Definition
A broad reform movement from roughly 1890 to 1920 that sought to address problems caused by industrialization, urbanization, and political corruption. Progressives worked at local, state, and federal levels to expand democracy, regulate business, and improve social welfare.
Examples
- Muckraker Upton Sinclair's 'The Jungle' led to the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906
- The 19th Amendment granting women's suffrage was a Progressive achievement
- President Theodore Roosevelt's trust-busting broke up monopolies like Standard Oil
Key Fact
The Progressive Era is generally dated from the 1890s to 1920.
Study This Concept
Practice Progressivism with free review games in these units: