HIS 144: Legacy of the Progressive Era

Kalyn Rinderhagen Professor Davis HIS 144 June 3, 2019 Legacy of the Progressive Era Regulation of Business The progressive movement was characterized by a shift from agrarian society to an industrializing society. Large corporations quickly grew with an increasing rate of cheap labor by the poor masses conditioned with poor living standards and their exploitation called for reforms. The reforms called for an expanded role by the government on regulating the business operations. Under the presidency of Roosevelt, a new reform “The New Nationalism” replaced the laisses-faire (free market) regime. The new reform led to creation of government agencies regulating the labor market. Thus, the existence of a graduated economy, restrictions on corporate money in politics and labor laws (eight-hour work day, child labor). Also, unionization of industries, nationalization of telegraph service and railroads took effect (Halpin and Cook). Greater Democracy The essence of the progressive era came to play due to a higher form of democratic aspirations by individuals. The push for equality by the reformers saw an increased control of the government by the citizens. For instance, amendments were enacted like the Seventeenth Amendment that provided for locals to directly elect US senators as opposed to being elected by state legislatures. Moreover, primary elections were introduced that gave the Americans more control of the government. The Nineteenth Amendment was also passed giving women the right to vote and reducing the white male suffrage and abolitionism CITATION Rot17 \l 1033 (Rothbard). Conservationism Exploitation of natural resources characterized the industrialization era. The rapid rise of industries and businesses increased the demand for raw materials. Hence, inserting pressure on the environment leading to deforestation, depletion of water points and poor waste management. Due to rising capitalism and the suppression of the poor, corporates practiced inappropriate mining, taking over of forest and grazing land. Conservationists ca...