Progressivism

Progressivism

• Definition:– Broad political philosophy based on the Idea of

Progress, which asserts that advances in science, technology, economics, and social organization can improve the human condition.

Progressivism

• Where do we see this in the 1800-1900s?– Advancement in industry– Changes in Laws/Political Changes– Social Changes– Environmental Causes

Progressivism

• How Do We See It In Advancement Of Industry?– Government funding of businesses– The ideology of Imperialism to get more resources• Conquest of Africa and Middle East

– The continued use of modern technology to improve industry• Assembly Line and Interchangeable Parts

– The relaxation of laws that all for rapid business expansion

Progressivism

• How do we see it in Law Changes?– Women’s Rights • Right to Vote, Right to Work

– Workers’ Rights• Unionization, Labor Laws, Child Labor Restrictions,

Formation of Inspection Organizations, Formation of Government Agencies to protect workers

– Minority Rights• Civil Rights, Immigration Reform

Progressivism

• How do we see it in Social Changes?– Formation/Expansion of Police and Fire Departments• Used to protect rapidly growing cities

– Sanitation Laws• Used to improve sanitary conditions of the cities, creating

trash collection and waste management systems

– Building Codes• Housing and Building structures must meet requirements

Progressivism

• How do we see it in Environmental Causes?– Formation of National Parks/Wildlife Preserves• Create sanctuaries for animal species and plant life• Allows escape from the cities/protection from

expansion of the cities

– Pollution• Control the waste of cities and industry• Protect the health of the people

Progressivism

• The legacy of Progressives:– Labor Laws – 8-10 hour work day, safety measures– Women’s Right to Vote – women can play a role in

political arena– National Parks Established – places like Mammoth

Cave and Smokey Mountain National Parks born– Boom of Technology and Industry – more global

growth in industry and quickest emergence of technology in our history

Questions on Progressives

• Due before you leave:– What is Progressivism?– Where do we see Progressivism? Give examples of

each way we see it?– Which of the Progressive ideas do you think is

most important and why?– What in your mind is the legacy of the

Progressives and the Progressive Movement?