The Progressive Era was a time of social and political change meant to alleviate the problems brought on by rapid industrialization. Most progressives rejected the earlier beliefs of Social Darwinism
Progressives typically focused on four main principles: protecting social welfare, promoting moral improvement, creating economic reform, and fostering efficiency. Although Progressivism began as a social movement, it eventually became a political movement that affected all segments of society. The Progressive Era, although sounding like a noble venture, failed to alleviate all of societies failures, fostered the growth of big government and regulation, and brought forth moral standards established by a small minority. No matter what, a social movement developed into real change; change that was a positive step forward for many Americans. |