Progressive Reform Movements

Definition

These were social and political movements in the early 20th century that aimed to correct injustices in American life such as corruption, poverty, health hazards, and social inequality.

Analogy

Imagine your school is full of problems - bullies running rampant, unhealthy cafeteria food being served daily, outdated textbooks being used for teaching. The progressive reform movements would be like student council initiatives aiming to fix these issues one by one.

Related terms

Muckrakers: Journalists who exposed societal issues during the Progressive Era with an aim to bring about reforms.

Suffrage Movement: A decades-long fight to win voting rights for women in the United States which culminated with passing of 19th amendment in 1920.

Trust-Busting: Government activities aimed at breaking up monopolies or trusts.