Introduction
The period following the Civil War saw significant changes in the United States, leading to the emergence of the Progressive Era. This essay argues that the Progressive Era, which spanned from the late 19th to the early 20th century, was a pivotal moment in American history. During this era, progressive leaders worked towards social, political, and economic reforms, aiming to address the problems arising from rapid industrialization and urbanization. This essay will explore three key reasons why the Progressive Era was a crucial turning point in U.S. history: the expansion of social reforms, the rise of women’s suffrage, and the regulation of big business.
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Body:
Expansion of Social Reforms:
One of the most significant contributions of the Progressive Era was the expansion of social reforms aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Americans. Progressive leaders, such as Jane Addams and Florence Kelley, worked tirelessly to alleviate the harsh conditions faced by the urban poor. Addams established Hull House, a settlement house that provided essential services to immigrants and the underprivileged (Johnson 2010). Meanwhile, Kelley led the National Consumers League, advocating for better working conditions and fair wages for workers (Zahniser 2008).
Moreover, Theodore Roosevelt’s presidency witnessed a push for progressive legislation, including the Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act, which aimed to ensure food safety and protect consumers (Roosevelt 1906). These reforms not only marked a shift towards greater government intervention in public welfare but also laid the foundation for future social programs, such as the New Deal during the Great Depression.
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Rise of Women’s Suffrage:
The Progressive Era was also a crucial time for the women’s suffrage movement, which sought to secure voting rights for women. Leaders like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton had been advocating for suffrage since the mid-19th century, but it was during the Progressive Era that their efforts gained significant traction.
The formation of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) in 1890 brought together various suffrage organizations, creating a more unified front (Harper 1922). Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, later forming the National Woman’s Party, adopted more radical methods like picketing the White House and engaging in hunger strikes to draw attention to their cause (Banner 2002).
The tireless activism of suffragists finally bore fruit with the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote (History.com 2023). The suffrage movement’s success not only expanded democratic participation but also paved the way for future women’s rights advancements, including increased educational and employment opportunities.
Regulation of Big Business:
The Progressive Era witnessed a growing concern about the power and influence of large corporations, which led to the implementation of various measures to regulate big business. One of the key developments was the passing of the Sherman Antitrust Act in 1890, which aimed to prevent monopolistic practices and promote fair competition (Encyclopedia Britannica 2019).
Additionally, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Federal Reserve Act in 1913, establishing the Federal Reserve System, the central banking system of the United States (Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System 2021). The creation of the Federal Reserve helped stabilize the economy and provided a framework for managing financial crises.
Conclusion
The Progressive Era, with its focus on social reforms, women’s suffrage, and the regulation of big business, was undoubtedly a crucial turning point in United States history since 1865. The expansion of social programs and the improvement of living conditions for the less fortunate, coupled with the achievement of women’s suffrage, laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and participatory democracy. Moreover, the regulation of big business marked a shift towards a more balanced economic landscape, preventing the unchecked power of corporations. Overall, the Progressive Era’s legacy continues to shape the nation, reflecting a period of transformative change and laying the groundwork for future reform movements.
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