The Progressive Era

Summary

The Progressive Era was a period of widespread social activism and political reform in the United States spanning from the 1890s through 1920. Reformers sought to address problems caused by rapid industrialization, urbanization, immigration, and political corruption. Progressive activists worked at local, state, and federal levels to expand democracy, regulate big business, improve working conditions, and address social inequality. The movement produced lasting changes including antitrust legislation, labor protections, women's suffrage, and expanded government regulation of the economy.