HIST 2057 Lecture : Feb 18 Notes
Document Summary
Progressives bottom & top, 1895-1925: progressive era. Years when economic expansion produced millions of new jobs and brought an unprecedented array of goods within reach of american consumers. A period of explosive economic growth, fueled by increasing industrial production, a rapid rise in population, and the continued expansion of the consumer marketplace. Cities expanded rapidly- by 1920, for the first time, more americans lived in towns and cities more than in rural areas. Severe inequality remained, persistent labor strife raised the question of government"s role in combating social inequality. Traditional gender roles were changing as women took on new responsibilities in the workplace and in the making of public policy. Progressives described a broad, loosely defined political movement of individuals and groups who hoped to bring about significant change in american social and political life. Included forward-looking businessmen who realized that workers must be accorded a voice in economic decision making, and labor activists bent on empowering industrial workers.
