Chapter Twenty: The Progressives

Chapter Twenty:Chapter Twenty:The ProgressivesThe Progressives

1909 illustrated postcard by E. GustinOfficial White House portrait of TR by John Singer Sargent (1903)

Teddy giving “Flim-Flam” Financea thorough scrubbing in a 1902 coverof Puck magazine

Chapter Twenty: Chapter Twenty:

The ProgressivesThe Progressives The Progressive ImpulseThe Progressive Impulse

Desire for Order: Many Americans in the late 19Desire for Order: Many Americans in the late 19 thth and early 20 and early 20thth century felt that rapid industrialization and urbanization had created century felt that rapid industrialization and urbanization had created too much chaos and social instability.too much chaos and social instability.

Growth of Progressivism: Started with local movements that grew to Growth of Progressivism: Started with local movements that grew to national efforts; ultimately it was the presidency rather than Congress national efforts; ultimately it was the presidency rather than Congress that became the chief vehicle of reform.that became the chief vehicle of reform.

Belief in Progress: Progressives wanted progress and growth, but not Belief in Progress: Progressives wanted progress and growth, but not in the the uncontrolled, in the the uncontrolled, laissez-faire laissez-faire style of Gilded Age; direct and style of Gilded Age; direct and forceful human intervention was required for bettering society. forceful human intervention was required for bettering society.

““Antimonopoly”: While the progressive impulse was diverse, one Antimonopoly”: While the progressive impulse was diverse, one strong thread was the desire to break up and limit large strong thread was the desire to break up and limit large concentrations of wealth and power.concentrations of wealth and power.

Faith in Knowledge: Progressives thought they could solve tough Faith in Knowledge: Progressives thought they could solve tough social problems by applying knowledge and expertise.social problems by applying knowledge and expertise.

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– The Muckrakers and the Social GospelThe Muckrakers and the Social Gospel Crusading Journalists: Reporters looking to uncover social, economic, Crusading Journalists: Reporters looking to uncover social, economic,

and political injustice who Teddy Roosevelt chastised for “raking up and political injustice who Teddy Roosevelt chastised for “raking up muck” were the first to embody the national reform spirit.muck” were the first to embody the national reform spirit.

Charles Francis Adams Jr. (1835-1915): This early “muckraker” and Charles Francis Adams Jr. (1835-1915): This early “muckraker” and member of the prominent Massachusetts family exposed the ruthless member of the prominent Massachusetts family exposed the ruthless practices of financiers Jay Gould and James Fisk as they tried to gain practices of financiers Jay Gould and James Fisk as they tried to gain control over the Erie Railroad in 1868.control over the Erie Railroad in 1868.

Ida Tarbell (1857-1944): She wrote a series of exposés on the ruthless Ida Tarbell (1857-1944): She wrote a series of exposés on the ruthless business practices of John D. Rockefeller and Standard Oil in business practices of John D. Rockefeller and Standard Oil in McClure’s McClure’s Magazine Magazine in 1903, which was published as a book a year later.in 1903, which was published as a book a year later.

Lincoln Steffens (1866-1936): Steffens wrote a series of exposés on Lincoln Steffens (1866-1936): Steffens wrote a series of exposés on corruption in city governments also in corruption in city governments also in McClure’s, McClure’s, which he later which he later published as published as The Shame of the Cities The Shame of the Cities (1904). Tarbell and Steffens would (1904). Tarbell and Steffens would later leave McClure’s to form later leave McClure’s to form The American Magazine The American Magazine (1906). (1906).

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– The Muckrakers and the Social GospelThe Muckrakers and the Social Gospel The Social Gospel: This broad label applies to various efforts to drive social The Social Gospel: This broad label applies to various efforts to drive social

reform through religion (namely Protestant Christianity). Though founded in reform through religion (namely Protestant Christianity). Though founded in England in 1865, the Salvation Army was typical of this idea, offering spiritual England in 1865, the Salvation Army was typical of this idea, offering spiritual and material aid to the poor in most American cities by 1900. Charles Sheldon’s and material aid to the poor in most American cities by 1900. Charles Sheldon’s In His Steps In His Steps (1898), a novel about a Protestant minister who leaves a cushy job (1898), a novel about a Protestant minister who leaves a cushy job for a tough urban environment, sold 15 million copies. The Social Gospel was for a tough urban environment, sold 15 million copies. The Social Gospel was not the predominant strand in Progressivism, but it was influential. not the predominant strand in Progressivism, but it was influential.

4Ida Tarbell

Lincoln Steffens Salvation Army Band in Brooklyn in 1909



– The Settlement House MovementThe Settlement House Movement Influence of Environment: Many progressive urban reformers believed Influence of Environment: Many progressive urban reformers believed

that crowded immigrant slums harmed individual development.that crowded immigrant slums harmed individual development. “ “Settlement Houses”: The idea of having middle-class “settlement Settlement Houses”: The idea of having middle-class “settlement

workers” come in and work with the urban poor originated in England, workers” come in and work with the urban poor originated in England, with Toynbee Hall opened in 1884 in East London. with Toynbee Hall opened in 1884 in East London.

Jane Addams and Hull-House: The social reformer Jane Addams (1860-Jane Addams and Hull-House: The social reformer Jane Addams (1860-1935) opened the first U.S. settlement house, Hull-House, with Ellen 1935) opened the first U.S. settlement house, Hull-House, with Ellen Gates Starr (1859-1940) in the slums of Chicago’s Near West Side Gates Starr (1859-1940) in the slums of Chicago’s Near West Side neighborhood. The house began the model for 400 other similar neighborhood. The house began the model for 400 other similar institutions across the United States. The settlement houses gave birth to institutions across the United States. The settlement houses gave birth to the modern profession of social work, and were viewed as respectable the modern profession of social work, and were viewed as respectable places for unmarried college women to go and work. Addams was the first places for unmarried college women to go and work. Addams was the first American woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931. American woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931.

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– The Settlement House MovementThe Settlement House Movement

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Jane Addams

Exterior of the Hull-House complex, which had thirteen buildings by 1911.

A Hull-House worker greeting local residentsat the front door of Hull-House.



– The Allure of ExpertiseThe Allure of Expertise Expertise and University Training: In general, Progressives placed a Expertise and University Training: In general, Progressives placed a

high value on “scientific” solutions to social problems, applying high value on “scientific” solutions to social problems, applying academic research and training to them.academic research and training to them.

Thorstein Veblen (1857-1929): This Norwegian-American economist Thorstein Veblen (1857-1929): This Norwegian-American economist and sociologist imagined a society governed by expert “social and sociologist imagined a society governed by expert “social engineers”; followers would later call this rule by “technocrats.” engineers”; followers would later call this rule by “technocrats.”

– The ProfessionsThe Professions ““New Middle Class”: Historians give this label this new group of New Middle Class”: Historians give this label this new group of

highly trained professionals who emerged around the turn of the highly trained professionals who emerged around the turn of the twentieth century: managers, technicians, accountants, specialized twentieth century: managers, technicians, accountants, specialized lawyers and businessmen, and scientists and engineers. Professional lawyers and businessmen, and scientists and engineers. Professional organizations began to develop that set standards for training. organizations began to develop that set standards for training.

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– The ProfessionsThe Professions American Medical Association: Founded as a loose organization in 1847, the American Medical Association: Founded as a loose organization in 1847, the

association incorporated in 1897 and reorganized in 1901 to uphold strict association incorporated in 1897 and reorganized in 1901 to uphold strict scientific standards for those allowed to practice medicine, fighting against scientific standards for those allowed to practice medicine, fighting against “quackery” that had long plagued American medicine. States began passing “quackery” that had long plagued American medicine. States began passing medical licensing laws, and medical education improved, especially as rigorous medical licensing laws, and medical education improved, especially as rigorous medical schools like Johns Hopkins (1893) were created, making U.S. medical medical schools like Johns Hopkins (1893) were created, making U.S. medical education quickly on par with that of Europe.education quickly on par with that of Europe.

Legal Profession: By 1916, lawyers had established bar associations in all 48 Legal Profession: By 1916, lawyers had established bar associations in all 48 states and law schools expanded to meet the demands. states and law schools expanded to meet the demands.

Business: Businessmen began funding schools of business administration, like Business: Businessmen began funding schools of business administration, like the Wharton School at U. Penn (1881, and creating professional organizations the Wharton School at U. Penn (1881, and creating professional organizations like National Association of Manufacturers (1895) and the U.S. Chamber of like National Association of Manufacturers (1895) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which became powerful lobbying tools.Commerce, which became powerful lobbying tools.

Exclusion: Professional organizations often excluded women and people of Exclusion: Professional organizations often excluded women and people of color. color.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives

The Progressive ImpulseThe Progressive Impulse– Women and the ProfessionsWomen and the Professions

Limited Opportunities: Even middle-class, college-educated women Limited Opportunities: Even middle-class, college-educated women found their opportunities limited in the professions, although a small found their opportunities limited in the professions, although a small group became the first wave of female doctors, lawyers, engineers, group became the first wave of female doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists, and corporate managers. scientists, and corporate managers.

““Gender-Appropriate” Professions: Most gravitated toward Gender-Appropriate” Professions: Most gravitated toward professions that were considered suitable for women, like nursing, professions that were considered suitable for women, like nursing, social work, and to the largest extent, teaching. In the late nineteenth social work, and to the largest extent, teaching. In the late nineteenth century, 90 percent of of all female professionals were teachers. century, 90 percent of of all female professionals were teachers. Some women also found careers in academia, teaching at new Some women also found careers in academia, teaching at new women’s schools. women’s schools.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives Women and ReformWomen and Reform

Key Role of Women in Reform Causes: Women were leaders in Key Role of Women in Reform Causes: Women were leaders in progressive reform, but held few public offices, had only small progressive reform, but held few public offices, had only small footholds in most professions, and often shared the belief with footholds in most professions, and often shared the belief with middle-class men that women were not suited for the public world. middle-class men that women were not suited for the public world.

– The “New Woman”The “New Woman” More Time: Middle-class housewives were having less children and More Time: Middle-class housewives were having less children and

kids were going to school at an earlier age.kids were going to school at an earlier age. Shunning Marriage: Some college-educated women shunned Shunning Marriage: Some college-educated women shunned

marriage entirely to devote their lives to their careers. marriage entirely to devote their lives to their careers. ““Boston Marriages”: Some single women lived together with another Boston Marriages”: Some single women lived together with another

woman in long-term relationships that were secretly romantic; such woman in long-term relationships that were secretly romantic; such arrangements became marginally acceptable.arrangements became marginally acceptable.

Divorce Rates Rise: Divorce rates rose from one in twenty-one in Divorce Rates Rise: Divorce rates rose from one in twenty-one in 1880 to one in nine in 1920.1880 to one in nine in 1920.

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– The ClubwomenThe Clubwomen Women’s Clubs: These became more acceptable public spaces Women’s Clubs: These became more acceptable public spaces

for middle-class and elite women in the late nineteenth century, for middle-class and elite women in the late nineteenth century, largely as places for intellectual and cultural stimulation.largely as places for intellectual and cultural stimulation.

General Federation of Women’s Clubs: Founded in 1892 to General Federation of Women’s Clubs: Founded in 1892 to coordinate the activities of local clubs, it started with 100,000 coordinate the activities of local clubs, it started with 100,000 members and 500 clubs. It reached one million members by members and 500 clubs. It reached one million members by 1917.1917.

Clubs and Social Reform: The women’s clubs evolved from Clubs and Social Reform: The women’s clubs evolved from primarily cultural institutions to advocates for social reform: primarily cultural institutions to advocates for social reform: labor laws for children and women, food and drug regulation, labor laws for children and women, food and drug regulation, urban housing standards, anti-alcohol legislation, and also urban housing standards, anti-alcohol legislation, and also “mothers’ pensions” at the state level for abandoned or widowed “mothers’ pensions” at the state level for abandoned or widowed mothers of young children. mothers of young children.

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– The ClubwomenThe Clubwomen Clubs and Social Reform: The women’s clubs evolved from Clubs and Social Reform: The women’s clubs evolved from

primarily cultural institutions to advocates for social reform: labor primarily cultural institutions to advocates for social reform: labor laws for children and women, food and drug regulation, urban laws for children and women, food and drug regulation, urban housing standards, anti-alcohol legislation, and also “mothers’ housing standards, anti-alcohol legislation, and also “mothers’ pensions” at the state level for abandoned or widowed mothers of pensions” at the state level for abandoned or widowed mothers of young children. young children.

Women’s Trade Union League: Founded in 1903 to by women Women’s Trade Union League: Founded in 1903 to by women union members and elite women to encourage women’s union union members and elite women to encourage women’s union membership, support strikers, and lobby for protective legislation.membership, support strikers, and lobby for protective legislation.

Black Women: Black women generally were excluded from white Black Women: Black women generally were excluded from white clubs, so they formed their own and also created an alternate clubs, so they formed their own and also created an alternate umbrella organization: the National Association of Colored Women umbrella organization: the National Association of Colored Women (created when two separate organizations merged in 1896).(created when two separate organizations merged in 1896).

Overall: Clubs in general did not challenge the male-dominated Overall: Clubs in general did not challenge the male-dominated order, but did provide a new kind of public space for women.order, but did provide a new kind of public space for women.



– Woman SuffrageWoman Suffrage Radical Challenge of Woman Suffrage: The idea that women had the Radical Challenge of Woman Suffrage: The idea that women had the

same “natural rights” as men challenged the traditional idea that there same “natural rights” as men challenged the traditional idea that there should be a separate “sphere” for women, and that the “natural order” should be a separate “sphere” for women, and that the “natural order” dictated women to stay home with children. Anti-suffrage activists dictated women to stay home with children. Anti-suffrage activists claimed suffrage would lead to more divorce, promiscuity, and claimed suffrage would lead to more divorce, promiscuity, and neglect of children. neglect of children.

National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA): National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA): Founded in 1890, this organization made big gains after the turn of Founded in 1890, this organization made big gains after the turn of the century. It went from 13,000 members in 1893 to over 2 million the century. It went from 13,000 members in 1893 to over 2 million in 1917. Became the League of Women Voters after 1920.in 1917. Became the League of Women Voters after 1920.

Argument for Suffrage: Suffrage would not challenge the separate Argument for Suffrage: Suffrage would not challenge the separate sphere dynamic, but women would curb the belligerence of men and sphere dynamic, but women would curb the belligerence of men and make war a thing of the past. make war a thing of the past.

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– Woman Suffrage: StatesWoman Suffrage: States 1890: Wyoming admitted to the Union permitting woman suffrage.1890: Wyoming admitted to the Union permitting woman suffrage. 1893: Colorado adopts woman suffrage.1893: Colorado adopts woman suffrage. 1896: Utah joins the Union permitting woman suffrage.1896: Utah joins the Union permitting woman suffrage. 1910: Washington State adopts it.1910: Washington State adopts it. 1912: Oregon, Kansas, and Arizona adopt woman suffrage.1912: Oregon, Kansas, and Arizona adopt woman suffrage. 1914: Nevada and Montana adopt woman suffrage.1914: Nevada and Montana adopt woman suffrage. 1917: New York women are granted suffrage.1917: New York women are granted suffrage. 1918: Michigan, South Dakota, and Oklahoma adopt woman 1918: Michigan, South Dakota, and Oklahoma adopt woman

suffrage.suffrage. 1919: Thirty-nine states adopt suffrage for women in at least some 1919: Thirty-nine states adopt suffrage for women in at least some

elections.elections.

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Suffragette Parade in NYC, 1915



Women and ReformWomen and Reform– Woman SuffrageWoman Suffrage

Nineteenth Amendment: Finally passes in 1919 is ratified on August Nineteenth Amendment: Finally passes in 1919 is ratified on August 18, 1920. Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton had drafted 18, 1920. Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton had drafted the amendment in 1878, and it became law over four decades later. It the amendment in 1878, and it became law over four decades later. It failed to pass the House in 1915; it passed the House but not the failed to pass the House in 1915; it passed the House but not the Senate in 1918, and then narrowly failed again in February 1919. Senate in 1918, and then narrowly failed again in February 1919. President Wilson called for a special session in May and June to get it President Wilson called for a special session in May and June to get it done, and it at last passed with considerable pressure from him. done, and it at last passed with considerable pressure from him.

Equal Rights Amendment: Feminist Alice Paul (1885-1977) broke Equal Rights Amendment: Feminist Alice Paul (1885-1977) broke away from NAWSA in 1916, frustrated with its “separate sphere” away from NAWSA in 1916, frustrated with its “separate sphere” argument. She believed that women needed not just suffrage, but also argument. She believed that women needed not just suffrage, but also laws protecting their rights and preventing discrimination. Paul’s laws protecting their rights and preventing discrimination. Paul’s proposals were mostly ignored. proposals were mostly ignored.

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Alice Paul



The Assault on the PartiesThe Assault on the Parties Reforming Government: Progressives argued that government Reforming Government: Progressives argued that government

needed to be reformed before society at large could be, and that the needed to be reformed before society at large could be, and that the two major parties were obstacles to making government an two major parties were obstacles to making government an instrument for change.instrument for change.

Two-Party Stranglehold: From the 1870s to the 1890s, the Greenback Two-Party Stranglehold: From the 1870s to the 1890s, the Greenback Party and the Populists tried to break the big party stranglehold, as Party and the Populists tried to break the big party stranglehold, as did the independent Republican reformers known as the Mugwumps.did the independent Republican reformers known as the Mugwumps.

Some Reforms: For example, most states in the 1880s and 1890s Some Reforms: For example, most states in the 1880s and 1890s adopted the secret ballot, which weakened party power. Before the adopted the secret ballot, which weakened party power. Before the secret ballot, parties printed the “tickets” and often hard party thugs secret ballot, parties printed the “tickets” and often hard party thugs observe voting behavior.observe voting behavior.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives The Assault on the PartiesThe Assault on the Parties

– Municipal ReformMunicipal Reform Urban Reform: Most Progressives saw city governments as the most Urban Reform: Most Progressives saw city governments as the most

corrupt and incompetent aspect of party politics, and thus were corrupt and incompetent aspect of party politics, and thus were targeted by muckraking journalists like Lincoln Steffens. Motivated targeted by muckraking journalists like Lincoln Steffens. Motivated middle-class urbanites took up the fight against the bosses.middle-class urbanites took up the fight against the bosses.

Commissions and City-Managers: In Galveston, Texas, after a Commissions and City-Managers: In Galveston, Texas, after a devastating flood in 1900 and a poor city government response, devastating flood in 1900 and a poor city government response, voters replaced the mayor with an elected nonpartisan commission. voters replaced the mayor with an elected nonpartisan commission. The model of a nonpartisan commission or a city manager grew The model of a nonpartisan commission or a city manager grew across the country, with 400 cities being governed by commission across the country, with 400 cities being governed by commission and 45 being governed by a city manager by the end of the and 45 being governed by a city manager by the end of the Progressive Era. City managers were trained engineers or Progressive Era. City managers were trained engineers or administrators.administrators.

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– Statehouse ProgressivismStatehouse Progressivism Boss-Controlled State Legislatures: Reformers looked for ways to Boss-Controlled State Legislatures: Reformers looked for ways to

circumvent what they saw as corrupt and incompetent bodies.circumvent what they saw as corrupt and incompetent bodies. Initiative or Proposition: This ballot mechanism submits legislation Initiative or Proposition: This ballot mechanism submits legislation

directly to the voters for approval. directly to the voters for approval. Referendum: Actions of the legislature can be returned to the voters Referendum: Actions of the legislature can be returned to the voters

for their approval. Twenty states had either initiative or referendum for their approval. Twenty states had either initiative or referendum laws by 1918.laws by 1918.

Direct Primary and Recall: The direct primary removes the power of Direct Primary and Recall: The direct primary removes the power of choosing candidates from the party bosses, giving it to the people. choosing candidates from the party bosses, giving it to the people. Recalls could get an official removed through a special election that Recalls could get an official removed through a special election that could be held if enough signatures were collected. All states adopted could be held if enough signatures were collected. All states adopted the primaries by 1915, but only a few (like California) adopted the the primaries by 1915, but only a few (like California) adopted the recall.recall.

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– Robert La Follette (1855-1925)Robert La Follette (1855-1925) Progressive Governor: Elected governor of Wisconsin 1900, La Follette Progressive Governor: Elected governor of Wisconsin 1900, La Follette

made the state into “a laboratory of progressivism”: created a workers’ made the state into “a laboratory of progressivism”: created a workers’ compensation system, railroad rate reforms, a primary system, a compensation system, railroad rate reforms, a primary system, a minimum wage, nonpartisan elections, and a close relationship between minimum wage, nonpartisan elections, and a close relationship between state officials and academics at the University of Wisconsin who together state officials and academics at the University of Wisconsin who together tried to solve social problems. tried to solve social problems.

– Parties and Interest GroupsParties and Interest Groups Decline in Party Influence: The reformers lessened party influence, but Decline in Party Influence: The reformers lessened party influence, but

also contributed to a decline in voter turnout: 73 percent of the electorate also contributed to a decline in voter turnout: 73 percent of the electorate voted in 1900, but only 59 percent in 1912. It would never go over 70 voted in 1900, but only 59 percent in 1912. It would never go over 70 percent again (In 2004 and 2008, voter-age turnout was 56.69 and 57.37.) percent again (In 2004 and 2008, voter-age turnout was 56.69 and 57.37.)

““Interest Groups”: Professional organizations, trade groups, labor Interest Groups”: Professional organizations, trade groups, labor unions, and farm lobbies replaced some aspects of party influence.unions, and farm lobbies replaced some aspects of party influence.

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Sources of Progressive ReformSources of Progressive Reform– Labor, the Machine, and ReformLabor, the Machine, and Reform

Varied Progressive Groups: Middle-class reformers from the East Varied Progressive Groups: Middle-class reformers from the East were the most visible face of the Progressive movement, but working-were the most visible face of the Progressive movement, but working-class Americans, African Americans, westerners, and even party class Americans, African Americans, westerners, and even party bosses took part in reform.bosses took part in reform.

Labor: Although the AFL led by Samuel Gompers remained mostly Labor: Although the AFL led by Samuel Gompers remained mostly aloof from reform, some unions did become powerful advocates for aloof from reform, some unions did become powerful advocates for regulatory legislation: between 1911 and 1913, the Union Labor Party regulatory legislation: between 1911 and 1913, the Union Labor Party in California exerted pressure that led to passage of a child labor law, in California exerted pressure that led to passage of a child labor law, workmen’s compensation, and limitations on women’s working hours. workmen’s compensation, and limitations on women’s working hours.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives Sources of Progressive ReformSources of Progressive Reform

– Labor, the Machine, and ReformLabor, the Machine, and Reform Reform from within Tammany: The astute boss of Tammany Reform from within Tammany: The astute boss of Tammany

Hall, Charles Francis Murphy, began to align some of its Hall, Charles Francis Murphy, began to align some of its policies with the reformers’ agendas that did not offend its policies with the reformers’ agendas that did not offend its constituency, like cleaning up the police department and constituency, like cleaning up the police department and curbing prostitution.curbing prostitution.

Triangle Shirtwaist Fire: In 1911, a horrific fire in the top Triangle Shirtwaist Fire: In 1911, a horrific fire in the top floor of the Triangle Shirtwaist Company trapped workers—floor of the Triangle Shirtwaist Company trapped workers—mostly immigrant women—in the top floors of a factory mostly immigrant women—in the top floors of a factory building. Within 18 minutes, 146 were killed, largely because building. Within 18 minutes, 146 were killed, largely because emergency exits had been locked. Tammany Democrat emergency exits had been locked. Tammany Democrat legislators Robert Wagner and Alfred Smith led the charge to legislators Robert Wagner and Alfred Smith led the charge to create a series of new laws that imposed strict regulations on create a series of new laws that imposed strict regulations on factory owners with effective enforcement mechanisms.factory owners with effective enforcement mechanisms.

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Shirtwaist

C.F. Murphy



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Four victims of the Triangle Fire:Max Florin, Fannie Rosen, Dora Evans and Josephine Cammarata

Bodies of three women who had fallen to their deaths



Sources of Progressive ReformSources of Progressive Reform– Western ProgressivesWestern Progressives

Importance of the Federal Government: Out in the Far West, federal Importance of the Federal Government: Out in the Far West, federal authority was much greater than in the East since many important authority was much greater than in the East since many important issues, like water sources that flowed across state lines and major issues, like water sources that flowed across state lines and major subsidies in the form of land grants or funds for railroad and water subsidies in the form of land grants or funds for railroad and water projects. Reformers thus targeted the federal government more.projects. Reformers thus targeted the federal government more.

Progressive Western Congressmen: Progressive Republican George Progressive Western Congressmen: Progressive Republican George Norris (1861-1944) of Nebraska, for example, supported the direct Norris (1861-1944) of Nebraska, for example, supported the direct election of senators, advocated for the rights of labor, and was an election of senators, advocated for the rights of labor, and was an anti-war isolationist. anti-war isolationist.

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– African Americans and ReformAfrican Americans and Reform White Progressives: The issue of racial justice, with just a few White Progressives: The issue of racial justice, with just a few

exceptions, was not on the white progressive agenda. Some were what we exceptions, was not on the white progressive agenda. Some were what we now consider to be overtly racist now.now consider to be overtly racist now.

Booker T. Washington (1856-1915): The founder of the Tuskegee Booker T. Washington (1856-1915): The founder of the Tuskegee Institute did not encourage long-term social reform and challenging the Institute did not encourage long-term social reform and challenging the social order, but favored African Americans focusing on self-social order, but favored African Americans focusing on self-improvement. In 1901, Roosevelt invited him to dine at the White House.improvement. In 1901, Roosevelt invited him to dine at the White House.

W.E.B. Du Bois (1868-1963): Du Bois, a Harvard-trained sociologist and W.E.B. Du Bois (1868-1963): Du Bois, a Harvard-trained sociologist and historian, challenged Washington’s stance. In his 1903 historian, challenged Washington’s stance. In his 1903 Souls of Black Souls of Black Folk, Folk, he attacked Washington for encouraging white efforts to segregate he attacked Washington for encouraging white efforts to segregate and keep black aspirations limited. Talented blacks needed full liberal and keep black aspirations limited. Talented blacks needed full liberal educations, should aspire to professional careers, and struggle for their educations, should aspire to professional careers, and struggle for their civil rights and not sit passively waiting for them. civil rights and not sit passively waiting for them.

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““Is it possible and probable that nine Is it possible and probable that nine millions of men can make effective millions of men can make effective progress in economic lines if they are progress in economic lines if they are deprived of political rights, made a deprived of political rights, made a servile caste, and allowed only the most servile caste, and allowed only the most meager chance for developing their meager chance for developing their exceptional men?”exceptional men?”

W. E. B. Du W. E. B. Du BoisBois

The Souls of Black Folk The Souls of Black Folk (1903)(1903)

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– African Americans and ReformAfrican Americans and Reform Founding of the NAACP: In 1905, Du Bois and a group Founding of the NAACP: In 1905, Du Bois and a group

of his supporters met on the Canadian side of Niagara of his supporters met on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls since no hotels on the New York side would have Falls since no hotels on the New York side would have them. In 1909, this group—along with some sympathetic them. In 1909, this group—along with some sympathetic white supporters—created the National Association for white supporters—created the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Focus on Legal Rights and Anti-Lynching: The NAACP Focus on Legal Rights and Anti-Lynching: The NAACP focused its efforts on equal legal rights and trying to get focused its efforts on equal legal rights and trying to get anti-lynching laws passed.anti-lynching laws passed.

Ida B. Wells-Barnett (1862-1931): One of the most Ida B. Wells-Barnett (1862-1931): One of the most fearless anti-lynching crusaders was this journalist and fearless anti-lynching crusaders was this journalist and political activist employing extensive data and political activist employing extensive data and sophisticated analysis in her writings. sophisticated analysis in her writings.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives Crusades for Social Order and ReformCrusades for Social Order and Reform

– Morality and Social OrderMorality and Social Order Legislating Morality: While progressive spent a lot of energy reforming Legislating Morality: While progressive spent a lot of energy reforming

politics, many also sought to “legislate morality”: pass laws prohibiting politics, many also sought to “legislate morality”: pass laws prohibiting alcohol, curbing prostitution, limiting divorce, and preventing too great a alcohol, curbing prostitution, limiting divorce, and preventing too great a influx of immigrants.influx of immigrants.

White Protestant “Norms”: Many progressives were white middle-class White Protestant “Norms”: Many progressives were white middle-class or upper-class Protestants who sought to impose their own sense of or upper-class Protestants who sought to impose their own sense of morality on the rest of society since they viewed themselves as “true morality on the rest of society since they viewed themselves as “true Americans,” and that immigrants and African Americans, for example, Americans,” and that immigrants and African Americans, for example, needed to assimilate to their ways. During the progressive era, states needed to assimilate to their ways. During the progressive era, states often enforced “blue laws” against the sale of alcohol or playing baseball often enforced “blue laws” against the sale of alcohol or playing baseball on Sunday, which angered immigrant groups who liked to use Sunday as on Sunday, which angered immigrant groups who liked to use Sunday as a day of leisure. a day of leisure.

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– The Temperance CrusadeThe Temperance Crusade Crusade against Alcohol: Many progressives saw banning the sale as Crusade against Alcohol: Many progressives saw banning the sale as

alcohol as necessary to restore social order as it was a major contributing alcohol as necessary to restore social order as it was a major contributing factor in domestic violence among working-class families. Some factor in domestic violence among working-class families. Some employers were also in favor of these measures since alcohol could have a employers were also in favor of these measures since alcohol could have a negatives effect on efficiency and absenteeism. Saloons also tended to be negatives effect on efficiency and absenteeism. Saloons also tended to be important organizing points for urban political machines like Tammany.important organizing points for urban political machines like Tammany.

WCTU: Formed in 1873, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union was WCTU: Formed in 1873, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union was led as of 1879 by a forceful spokesperson, Frances Willard (1839-1898). led as of 1879 by a forceful spokesperson, Frances Willard (1839-1898). It merged with the Anti-Saloon League in 1893, and had 245,000 It merged with the Anti-Saloon League in 1893, and had 245,000 members by 1911, making it the largest women’s organization in the U.S. members by 1911, making it the largest women’s organization in the U.S.

Eighteenth Amendment: By 1916, the WCTU had managed to get 19 Eighteenth Amendment: By 1916, the WCTU had managed to get 19 states to pass prohibition laws. In 1917, progressives, joined by rural states to pass prohibition laws. In 1917, progressives, joined by rural Christian fundamentalists, got amendment passed in Congress. It was Christian fundamentalists, got amendment passed in Congress. It was ratified over the next two years, going into effect in January 1920. ratified over the next two years, going into effect in January 1920. 29

Frances Willard



– Immigration RestrictionImmigration Restriction Immigrants as a Source of Disorder: Many progressives saw immigrants as a Immigrants as a Source of Disorder: Many progressives saw immigrants as a

major source of social disorder in the cities. Some progressives thought it major source of social disorder in the cities. Some progressives thought it best to help them assimilate, while others thought that the flow—peaking in best to help them assimilate, while others thought that the flow—peaking in 1907 with 1,285,349—needed to be restricted.1907 with 1,285,349—needed to be restricted.

Eugenics: Many popular quasi-scientific theories around 1900—called Eugenics: Many popular quasi-scientific theories around 1900—called “eugenics”—posited that immigrants from Eastern and Southern Europe “eugenics”—posited that immigrants from Eastern and Southern Europe were of inferior racial stock, and that letting so many in would lead to were of inferior racial stock, and that letting so many in would lead to inevitable mixing with superior Northern European ethnicities, leading to a inevitable mixing with superior Northern European ethnicities, leading to a dilution of the Anglo-Saxon majority.dilution of the Anglo-Saxon majority.

Dillingham Commission: This special joint congressional committee led by Dillingham Commission: This special joint congressional committee led by Senator William P. Dillingham of Vermont met to investigate immigration in Senator William P. Dillingham of Vermont met to investigate immigration in 1907. It implied that the recent immigrants were less assimilable than earlier 1907. It implied that the recent immigrants were less assimilable than earlier waves, and that restrictions should be placed on those Southern and Eastern waves, and that restrictions should be placed on those Southern and Eastern European nationalities. Big business interests helped to prevent this European nationalities. Big business interests helped to prevent this legislation from passing since they wanted the cheap labor source. legislation from passing since they wanted the cheap labor source.

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– The Dream of SocialismThe Dream of Socialism Socialism’s Peak: The period between 1900 and 1914 was the period of Socialism’s Peak: The period between 1900 and 1914 was the period of

peak interest in the U.S. In the 1900 presidential election, it carried only peak interest in the U.S. In the 1900 presidential election, it carried only 100,000 voters, but hit 1 million in 1912.100,000 voters, but hit 1 million in 1912.

Eugene V. Debs (1855-1926): He was the Socialist Party candidate for Eugene V. Debs (1855-1926): He was the Socialist Party candidate for president in 1900, 1904, 1908, 1912, and 1920, the last time from a prison president in 1900, 1904, 1908, 1912, and 1920, the last time from a prison cell. He received his most votes in 1912. His leadership of the American cell. He received his most votes in 1912. His leadership of the American Railroad Union during the Pullman Strike converted him to socialism.Railroad Union during the Pullman Strike converted him to socialism.

““Wobblies”: The Socialist Party believed in taking power through electoral Wobblies”: The Socialist Party believed in taking power through electoral politics, but more radical groups believed in militant direct action and politics, but more radical groups believed in militant direct action and violence. One such group was the International Workers of the World, violence. One such group was the International Workers of the World, founded in Chicago in 1905, led by William “Big Bill” Haywood (1869-founded in Chicago in 1905, led by William “Big Bill” Haywood (1869-1928). The IWW was the only union that was concerned with unskilled 1928). The IWW was the only union that was concerned with unskilled workers—wanting to bring all workers into the same union—and were also workers—wanting to bring all workers into the same union—and were also believed to have dynamited railroads and power stations.believed to have dynamited railroads and power stations.

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– The Dream of SocialismThe Dream of Socialism Socialism’s Demise: The socialist refusal to support the war effort when Socialism’s Demise: The socialist refusal to support the war effort when

the U.S. entered World War I and the crackdown on radicals and the First the U.S. entered World War I and the crackdown on radicals and the First Red Scare (1919-1921) after the war did much to kill off most of the Red Scare (1919-1921) after the war did much to kill off most of the popular support the Socialist Party enjoyed. popular support the Socialist Party enjoyed.

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Eugene V. Debs of the Socialist Party“Big Bill” Haywood of the IWW



– Decentralization and RegulationDecentralization and Regulation Reforming Capitalism: Most progressives wanted to make reforms within Reforming Capitalism: Most progressives wanted to make reforms within

capitalism itself rather than institute a whole new economic system.capitalism itself rather than institute a whole new economic system. Louis D. Brandeis (1856-1931): This brilliant lawyer from Kentucky wrote a Louis D. Brandeis (1856-1931): This brilliant lawyer from Kentucky wrote a

book, book, Other People’s Money and How the Bankers Use It Other People’s Money and How the Bankers Use It (1914), argued (1914), argued against investment bankers using middle-class people’s investments to against investment bankers using middle-class people’s investments to consolidate big corporations, which was in their own interests, but not in consolidate big corporations, which was in their own interests, but not in those of small investors. Brandeis argued that the federal government should those of small investors. Brandeis argued that the federal government should prevent all big combinations from happening. In 1916, President Wilson prevent all big combinations from happening. In 1916, President Wilson nominated him to the Supreme Court, and he became the first Jewish person nominated him to the Supreme Court, and he became the first Jewish person to serve in that capacity. to serve in that capacity.

““Good Trusts” and “Bad Trusts”: Other progressives thought that big Good Trusts” and “Bad Trusts”: Other progressives thought that big corporations were unavoidable, but they needed to be strongly regulated by corporations were unavoidable, but they needed to be strongly regulated by the federal government. This was the attitude of Theodore Roosevelt.the federal government. This was the attitude of Theodore Roosevelt.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives Theodore Roosevelt and the Modern PresidencyTheodore Roosevelt and the Modern Presidency

– The Accidental PresidentThe Accidental President Iconic President: Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) became an iconic figure Iconic President: Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) became an iconic figure

not so much for his reform agenda, but for expanding the powers of the not so much for his reform agenda, but for expanding the powers of the presidency and making the office the center of national political discourse—presidency and making the office the center of national political discourse—in essence, making it what it is today.in essence, making it what it is today.

President by Accident: When McKinley was assassinated in September 1901, President by Accident: When McKinley was assassinated in September 1901, Roosevelt became the youngest president to take the office, at age 42. The Roosevelt became the youngest president to take the office, at age 42. The Republican establishment had deep regrets about having put this “wild man” Republican establishment had deep regrets about having put this “wild man” on the ticket. on the ticket.

Roosevelt’s Vision of Federal Power: He believed the federal government Roosevelt’s Vision of Federal Power: He believed the federal government should regulate, not destroy the trusts. should regulate, not destroy the trusts.

Northern Securities Company: In 1902, Roosevelt had the Justice Northern Securities Company: In 1902, Roosevelt had the Justice Department pursue an anti-trust suit against this gigantic railroad trust that Department pursue an anti-trust suit against this gigantic railroad trust that eliminated competition between several important Western railroads. It was eliminated competition between several important Western railroads. It was one of the first uses of the Sherman Anti-Trust Act against a corporation one of the first uses of the Sherman Anti-Trust Act against a corporation rather than a union. rather than a union. 34



– ““The Square Deal”The Square Deal” United Mine Workers Strike: In this 1902 strike, Roosevelt brought United Mine Workers Strike: In this 1902 strike, Roosevelt brought

the federal government in to resolve the strike as an impartial the federal government in to resolve the strike as an impartial arbitrator, not as a pro-mine owner source of troops.arbitrator, not as a pro-mine owner source of troops.

Hepburn Railroad Regulation Act (1906): Gave the Interstate Hepburn Railroad Regulation Act (1906): Gave the Interstate Commerce Commission—created in 1887—real authority to regulate Commerce Commission—created in 1887—real authority to regulate railroad rates.railroad rates.

Pure Food and Drug Act (1906): This act forbid the sale of Pure Food and Drug Act (1906): This act forbid the sale of “adulterated” food and drugs across state lines. It eventually led to “adulterated” food and drugs across state lines. It eventually led to Coca-Cola removing coca-leaf extract and relying on caffeine as its Coca-Cola removing coca-leaf extract and relying on caffeine as its main stimulant instead. main stimulant instead.

Meat Inspection Act (1906): This law was in part a response to Upton Meat Inspection Act (1906): This law was in part a response to Upton Sinclair’s exposé of the horrifying conditions in the Chicago Sinclair’s exposé of the horrifying conditions in the Chicago meatpacking industry, meatpacking industry, The Jungle, The Jungle, published that year. published that year.

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– Roosevelt and the EnvironmentRoosevelt and the Environment National Forest System: Created in 1891, these undeveloped lands National Forest System: Created in 1891, these undeveloped lands

owned and managed by the federal government were quite small until owned and managed by the federal government were quite small until Roosevelt and his chief forester, Gifford Pinchot (1865-1944) began Roosevelt and his chief forester, Gifford Pinchot (1865-1944) began to add millions of acres to it, mostly in the West.to add millions of acres to it, mostly in the West.

Competing Conservationist Visions: Pinchot, the first director of the Competing Conservationist Visions: Pinchot, the first director of the U.S. Forest Service, was a conservationist: someone who wanted to U.S. Forest Service, was a conservationist: someone who wanted to protect the land and carefully manage development. Roosevelt was protect the land and carefully manage development. Roosevelt was sympathetic to Pinchot’s position, but also to that of the naturalists, sympathetic to Pinchot’s position, but also to that of the naturalists, who wanted to preserve natural beauty and wildlife, leaving much of who wanted to preserve natural beauty and wildlife, leaving much of the federal land undeveloped. Foremost among naturalists was John the federal land undeveloped. Foremost among naturalists was John Muir (1838-1914), with whom Roosevelt went on a three-day Muir (1838-1914), with whom Roosevelt went on a three-day camping trip in Yosemite in 1903. Muir was a founder of the Sierra camping trip in Yosemite in 1903. Muir was a founder of the Sierra Club.Club.

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John Muir



37Roosevelt and John Muir at Yosemite on their 1903 camping trip

Gifford Pinchot, first chief of the National Forest Service, from 1905 to 1910.



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Establishment of National Parks and Forests



– Panic and RetirementPanic and Retirement Panic of 1907: Despite reforms, the federal government still had little Panic of 1907: Despite reforms, the federal government still had little

control over the economy. Known as the “Bankers’ Panic,” the New control over the economy. Known as the “Bankers’ Panic,” the New York Stock Exchange lost half its value compared to its 1906 peak.York Stock Exchange lost half its value compared to its 1906 peak.

Tennessee Coal and Iron Company: In an attempt to stabilize the Tennessee Coal and Iron Company: In an attempt to stabilize the collapsing banking structure, J.P. Morgan constructed a pool of assets of collapsing banking structure, J.P. Morgan constructed a pool of assets of New York banks that could be used to prop up shaky financial New York banks that could be used to prop up shaky financial institutions. Morgan wanted U.S. Steel to be allowed to purchase shares institutions. Morgan wanted U.S. Steel to be allowed to purchase shares in the troubled Tennessee mining company from a teetering New York in the troubled Tennessee mining company from a teetering New York bank, but needed a promise from Roosevelt that he would not pursue an bank, but needed a promise from Roosevelt that he would not pursue an anti-trust case, which Roosevelt quietly did. The panic soon subsided, but anti-trust case, which Roosevelt quietly did. The panic soon subsided, but is unclear if it was because of Morgan’s efforts.is unclear if it was because of Morgan’s efforts.

Retirement: Roosevelt had promised not to wrong again after 1904, and Retirement: Roosevelt had promised not to wrong again after 1904, and in addition, he had completely alienated Republican conservatives. He tus in addition, he had completely alienated Republican conservatives. He tus retired, promoted William H. Taft as his handpicked successor. retired, promoted William H. Taft as his handpicked successor.

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J.P. Morgan


The ProgressivesThe Progressives The Troubled SuccessionThe Troubled Succession

William Howard Taft (1857-1930): Roosevelt had William Howard Taft (1857-1930): Roosevelt had picked Taft, a respected lawyer and judge who had picked Taft, a respected lawyer and judge who had served as Governor-General of the Philippines under served as Governor-General of the Philippines under McKinley, as his Secretary of War in 1904 McKinley, as his Secretary of War in 1904 to get Taft ready to follow him. to get Taft ready to follow him.

Inscrutable: Progressives saw him as one of their Inscrutable: Progressives saw him as one of their own, but conservatives saw a man—who was closely own, but conservatives saw a man—who was closely adhered to the letter of the law—as someone who adhered to the letter of the law—as someone who might role back Roosevelt’s expansion of presidential might role back Roosevelt’s expansion of presidential powers. The latter were right, but in 1908, all powers. The latter were right, but in 1908, all Republicans saw what they wanted to see in him, and Republicans saw what they wanted to see in him, and he won easily. he won easily.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives The Troubled SuccessionThe Troubled Succession

– Taft and the ProgressivesTaft and the Progressives Payne-Aldrich Tariff: In 1909, he called a special session to have Payne-Aldrich Tariff: In 1909, he called a special session to have

Congress lower the tariff—a progressive goal—but did not follow Congress lower the tariff—a progressive goal—but did not follow through, letting a weak bill pass that barely lowered the tariff.through, letting a weak bill pass that barely lowered the tariff.

Ballinger-Pinchot Dispute: Many reformers were upset with Taft when he Ballinger-Pinchot Dispute: Many reformers were upset with Taft when he replaced Roosevelt’s Secretary of the Interior—James R. Garfield, an replaced Roosevelt’s Secretary of the Interior—James R. Garfield, an avid conservationist—with a conservative corporate lawyer, Richard avid conservationist—with a conservative corporate lawyer, Richard Ballinger, who soon thereafter tried to revoke one million acres of Ballinger, who soon thereafter tried to revoke one million acres of government land that Roosevelt had removed from private development. government land that Roosevelt had removed from private development. The president also angered progressives when he fired Gifford Pinchot, The president also angered progressives when he fired Gifford Pinchot, the chief forester, when Pinchot showed him evidence that Ballinger had the chief forester, when Pinchot showed him evidence that Ballinger had turned over valuable public coal lands in Alaska to a private corporation turned over valuable public coal lands in Alaska to a private corporation for personal profit. for personal profit.

Obesity: In the White House, Taft weighed over 300 lbs. and needed a Obesity: In the White House, Taft weighed over 300 lbs. and needed a special oversized bathtub installed in 1911.special oversized bathtub installed in 1911.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives Troubled SuccessionTroubled Succession

– The Return of RooseveltThe Return of Roosevelt Roosevelt Away: Roosevelt returned to the U.S. in 1910 after an Roosevelt Away: Roosevelt returned to the U.S. in 1910 after an

African safari and tour of Europe, and was greatly angered to see that African safari and tour of Europe, and was greatly angered to see that Taft had completely reversed many of his policies, and had made the Taft had completely reversed many of his policies, and had made the split between the conservative and progressive Republicans worse.split between the conservative and progressive Republicans worse.

““New Nationalism”: Roosevelt launched a speaking tour, and in New Nationalism”: Roosevelt launched a speaking tour, and in September 1910, declared his “New Nationalism” program in a September 1910, declared his “New Nationalism” program in a speech in Osawatomie, Kansas. His speech made a sharp break with speech in Osawatomie, Kansas. His speech made a sharp break with conservatives: it demanded strong federal intervention to achieve conservatives: it demanded strong federal intervention to achieve social justice, including a graduated income tax, workers’ social justice, including a graduated income tax, workers’ compensation for accident, regulation of women’s and children’s compensation for accident, regulation of women’s and children’s labor, tariff revisions, and firmer regulation of corporations. labor, tariff revisions, and firmer regulation of corporations.

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Roosevelt and his son, Kermit, atop an African water buffalo during their safari trip


The ProgressivesThe Progressives Troubled SuccessionTroubled Succession

– Spreading InsurgencySpreading Insurgency Roosevelt Changes His Mind: Roosevelt at first claimed he was not interested Roosevelt Changes His Mind: Roosevelt at first claimed he was not interested

in running for president, but only wanted to return Taft to progressive politics. in running for president, but only wanted to return Taft to progressive politics. But in October 1911, Taft’s administration announced that it would pursue an But in October 1911, Taft’s administration announced that it would pursue an anti-trust case against U.S. Steel for the 1907 purchase of Tennessee Coal and anti-trust case against U.S. Steel for the 1907 purchase of Tennessee Coal and Iron Co. during the panic, despite a promise from Roosevelt that this would Iron Co. during the panic, despite a promise from Roosevelt that this would not happen. In addition, the leading progressive Republican candidate, Robert not happen. In addition, the leading progressive Republican candidate, Robert La Follete, had a nervous breakdown during a speech in February 1912. La Follete, had a nervous breakdown during a speech in February 1912.

– Roosevelt versus TaftRoosevelt versus Taft The Progressive Party: At the Republican convention, Roosevelt seemed to The Progressive Party: At the Republican convention, Roosevelt seemed to

have a good shot at the nomination, but the conservatives engineered the have a good shot at the nomination, but the conservatives engineered the nomination for Taft. Roosevelt and his supporters broker away and formed nomination for Taft. Roosevelt and his supporters broker away and formed their own party, the Progressive Party. Yet success was not guaranteed: many their own party, the Progressive Party. Yet success was not guaranteed: many Republicans were unwilling to leave the party, and the Democrats put up a Republicans were unwilling to leave the party, and the Democrats put up a formidable opponent as well.formidable opponent as well.

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives Woodrow Wilson and the New FreedomWoodrow Wilson and the New Freedom

– Woodrow WilsonWoodrow Wilson 1912 Campaign: Not between a conservative and a progressive, but 1912 Campaign: Not between a conservative and a progressive, but

between two progressives with different ideas of what it is to be a between two progressives with different ideas of what it is to be a progressive.progressive.

Wilson: He had been professor of political science at Princeton in Wilson: He had been professor of political science at Princeton in 1902, then became president of that university, and the was elected 1902, then became president of that university, and the was elected governor of New Jersey in 1910.governor of New Jersey in 1910.

““New Freedom”: Wilson believe that large economic New Freedom”: Wilson believe that large economic conglomerations did not need to be strongly regulated—like conglomerations did not need to be strongly regulated—like Roosevelt—but that it needed to be destroyed, as did lawyer Louis Roosevelt—but that it needed to be destroyed, as did lawyer Louis Brandeis.Brandeis.

1912 Election: The split between Taft and Roosevelt brought Wilson 1912 Election: The split between Taft and Roosevelt brought Wilson to an easy victory, and he becomes the first Democrat to win the to an easy victory, and he becomes the first Democrat to win the office since 1892.office since 1892.

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Election of 1912

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The ProgressivesThe Progressives Woodrow Wilson and the New FreedomWoodrow Wilson and the New Freedom

– The Scholar as PresidentThe Scholar as President Democratic Majorities: Wilson had these in both houses of Congress, Democratic Majorities: Wilson had these in both houses of Congress,

leading to an easy path for his legislation.leading to an easy path for his legislation. Lowering the Tariff and Creating Income Tax: The Underwood-Lowering the Tariff and Creating Income Tax: The Underwood-

Simmons Tariff of 1913 at last accomplished this old progressive Simmons Tariff of 1913 at last accomplished this old progressive goal. To make up for lost revenue, Wilson guided legislation to goal. To make up for lost revenue, Wilson guided legislation to passage creating a graduated income tax system, which the Sixteenth passage creating a graduated income tax system, which the Sixteenth Amendment at last allowed. Amendment at last allowed.

Federal Reserve Act: Signed in December 1913, this law created a Federal Reserve Act: Signed in December 1913, this law created a system of twelve regional banks owned and controlled by local system of twelve regional banks owned and controlled by local banking institutions. Capital could be moved to quickly to trouble banking institutions. Capital could be moved to quickly to trouble spots, and “Federal Reserve Notes” could become the basic unit of spots, and “Federal Reserve Notes” could become the basic unit of trade in the U.S.trade in the U.S.

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Woodrow Wilson and the New FreedomWoodrow Wilson and the New Freedom– The Scholar as PresidentThe Scholar as President

Federal Trade Commission Act: Wilson signed this legislation that Federal Trade Commission Act: Wilson signed this legislation that created an agency that would vet deals or acquisitions of companies created an agency that would vet deals or acquisitions of companies ahead of time, letting the participants if the government would pursue ahead of time, letting the participants if the government would pursue an anti-trust case or not. an anti-trust case or not.

– Retreat and AdvanceRetreat and Advance Child-Labor Laws: Wilson got the Keating-Owen Act passed, a bill Child-Labor Laws: Wilson got the Keating-Owen Act passed, a bill

forbidding the traffic of child-labor produced goods across state lines, forbidding the traffic of child-labor produced goods across state lines, but the conservative Supreme Court struck it down.but the conservative Supreme Court struck it down.

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Documents

Chapter Twenty: The Progressives