chapter17

= Reform the Norm: With a Muck Rake =

In spite of its name, the Progressive movement – the reform effort that swept the nation between 1900 and 1920 – was not a single movement united behind a single goal. Rather it was a collection of reform-minded individuals and groups dedicated to bettering the life in the U.S. Building on Populist efforts and the work of 19th century reformers, the progressives publicized the ills of industrial society and sought to remedy them. The new industrial order changed American society in deep and disturbing ways. Many workers felt victimized by unhealthful working conditions, poor wages, and long workdays. At times progressive reformers and labor organizations joined forces, but more often they organized their own campaigns to improve conditions for workers. Progressive reformers were convinced that as citizens they were responsible for the well-being of their communities. While most white progressives concentrated on improving housing, public health, and personal morality, African American and Native American progressives organized to fight discrimination. Other progressives, motivated by nativist sentiments, set out to change immigrants’ cultures.
 * === The Progressive Movement ===
 * People:** Lincoln Steffens, Ida Tarbell, S.S. McClure, Ray Stannard Baker, Theodore Dreiser, Herbert Croly ||  ||
 * === Reforming the New Industrial Order ===
 * People:** Florence Kelley, Rose Schneiderman, Josephine Goldmark, Louis D. Brandeis, “Big Bill” Haywood ||  ||
 * === Reforming Society ===
 * People:** Lawrence Veiller, Frances Willard, W.E.B. DuBois ||  ||