Progressive Era

What, in your opinion, were the key principles of the Progressive Movement?

Political Reform, The progressives wanted to have change and reform in aspects of state, economy, and society. Progressives had significant changes at a national level such as: income taxes which the 16th Amendment covers The 17th Amendment which allows for direct election of Senators of States. The 18th Amendment covers Prohibition which outlawed the manufacturing, sale, and transportation of alcohol. However, drinking was not prohibited. The 19th Amendment states Women’s Suffrage to the U.S. Constitution.

The changes to State government reforms including: secret ballots this is where voters get secret ballots and a private booth to vote. The initiative gives voters the right to put issues on a ballot for a vote. The recall gives votes the right to remove an elected official. Most important, the Direct Primary giving workers the right to choice candidates for office rather than the big businesses voting in politicians.

In your opinion, what were Progressivisms most significant successes and failings?

In my opinion, the development of the Federal Reserve System in 1913 which consisted of 12 banks, who were overseen by a central board. This position was appointed by the president to handle currency, influence the interest rates (to promote economic growth), and to help out banks, who were failing. The Federal Reserve was created because of the Panic of 1907. Several financial companies threatened the collapse of the banking system.

The Federal Trade Commission was established to investigate and prohibit unfair business activities for example: monopolies and price fixing.

One of the failings of the Progressivism was the use of child labor. The Child Labor Commission was developed in 1904. However, the Federal