This outline provides key themes and concepts for AP US History Chapter 15, focusing on the Progressive Era. Remember to supplement these notes with your textbook and class materials for a complete understanding.
I. The Roots of Progressivism:
- Industrialization's Impact: Rapid industrialization led to significant social and economic inequalities, fueling progressive reform movements. Think about the rise of monopolies, child labor, unsafe working conditions, and the widening gap between the rich and the poor.
- Urbanization Challenges: Massive urbanization created overcrowded cities with inadequate sanitation, housing, and public services. This spurred progressive efforts in areas like public health and urban planning.
- Muckrakers: Investigative journalists exposed corruption and social ills, galvanizing public opinion and demanding reform. Key figures like Upton Sinclair ( The Jungle) and Ida Tarbell played crucial roles.
- Social Gospel Movement: Religious leaders advocated for social justice and applied Christian principles to address societal problems. This movement emphasized the importance of helping the poor and reforming society.
II. Progressive Reforms at the Local and State Levels:
- Municipal Reform: Cities tackled issues like corrupt political machines (like Tammany Hall), implementing reforms like the commission and city-manager systems to improve efficiency and reduce corruption.
- State-Level Reforms: States enacted progressive legislation addressing issues such as child labor, working conditions (e.g., maximum working hours), and workers' compensation. Wisconsin, under Governor Robert La Follette, became a model for progressive state government.
- Initiative, Referendum, and Recall: These direct democracy measures gave citizens more control over their government by allowing them to propose legislation (initiative), vote directly on laws (referendum), and remove elected officials from office (recall).
III. Progressive Presidents and National Reforms:
- Theodore Roosevelt (1901-1909): Roosevelt's "Square Deal" aimed to balance the interests of labor, capital, and the public. Key achievements included trust-busting (e.g., Northern Securities case), conservation efforts (establishing national parks), and consumer protection (Meat Inspection Act, Pure Food and Drug Act).
- William Howard Taft (1909-1913): While continuing some progressive initiatives, Taft's approach differed from Roosevelt's, leading to a split within the Republican Party. He pursued more antitrust lawsuits than Roosevelt.
- Woodrow Wilson (1913-1921): Wilson's "New Freedom" focused on restoring competition and limiting the power of big business. Key legislative achievements included the Underwood Tariff Act (lowering tariffs), the Federal Reserve Act (creating a central banking system), and the Clayton Antitrust Act (strengthening antitrust laws). His administration also witnessed the passage of the 16th Amendment (income tax) and the 17th Amendment (direct election of senators).
IV. Progressive Era Amendments:
- 16th Amendment (1913): Authorized the federal income tax.
- 17th Amendment (1913): Provided for the direct election of senators.
- 18th Amendment (1919): Prohibition of alcohol.
- 19th Amendment (1920): Women's suffrage (right to vote).
V. Limitations and Criticisms of Progressivism:
- Racial Inequality: While progressives addressed many social issues, racial prejudice remained a significant barrier to progress. African Americans faced continued discrimination and segregation.
- Immigration Restrictions: Nativist sentiments led to increased restrictions on immigration.
- Limited Scope of Reform: Some progressives focused primarily on the concerns of white, middle-class Americans, neglecting the needs of other groups.
This is a starting point; your textbook and class discussions will provide a more detailed and nuanced understanding of this significant period in American history. Remember to connect these themes to broader historical contexts and analyze the lasting impacts of the Progressive Era. Good luck with your studies!
