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Progressive Movement Goals and Reforms — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
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W.4.2

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This reading passage explores the Progressive Movement in the United States, focusing on its goals, key reforms, and the variety of perspectives held by reformers, business leaders, and everyday citizens. Students will analyze the causes and effects of progressivism, learn about figures like Ida B. Wells and Theodore Roosevelt, and examine both the achievements and limitations of the movement. The passage is structured to support critical thinking, includes a timeline, and weaves in a primary source quote to model historical reasoning. Activities include multiple-choice questions, writing prompts, and a graphic organizer to deepen understanding. The passage aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards. Spanish translation and read aloud audio are provided to ensure accessibility for all learners. This resource is ideal for developing historical analysis skills and vocabulary related to U.S. history.

CONTENT PREVIEW

figures representing Progressive Movement goals and reforms. — Progressive Movement ideals: democracy, trust-busting, and social justice.

The Progressive Movement in the United States began in the late 1800s and continued into the early 1900s. During this period, rapid industrialization and urbanization led to significant social and economic changes. As factories and cities grew, many Americans faced new problems, including unsafe working conditions, political corruption, and unfair business practices. The main goal of the Progressive Movement was to address these problems and create a better society.

Progressive reformers believed that government should play a stronger role in regulating the economy and protecting people’s rights. They fought against monopolies, which are companies that control an entire industry and can set unfair prices. Reformers argued that monopolies hurt consumers and limited competition, so they supported laws to break up these powerful companies. Another key goal was to end corruption in politics. Progressive leaders pushed for reforms like secret ballots and direct election of senators to make government more accountable to citizens.

Social justice was also a central concern for Progressives. Many reformers worked to improve living conditions in crowded city neighborhoods. They supported the development of settlement houses, where immigrants and the poor could receive education, job training, and health care. Progressives advocated for child labor laws to protect young workers and pushed for better labor unions to help workers negotiate safer conditions and fair wages. They believed that society should take responsibility for the well-being of its most vulnerable members.

Women played a vital role in the Progressive Movement. Organizations led by women fought for suffrage, or the right to vote. After years of activism, the 19th Amendment was added to the Constitution in 1920, granting women the right to participate fully in American democracy. Women reformers also campaigned for laws to protect children and improve public health.

One of the most effective strategies Progressives used was investigative journalism, often called "muckraking." Muckrakers exposed problems such as unsafe food processing, dishonest politicians, and harsh factory conditions. Their reports led to new laws, including the Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act, which aimed to protect consumers and ensure safer products.

Despite their successes, Progressives faced challenges. Not all groups benefited equally from reforms, and some changes were slow to reach African Americans, Native Americans, and other minorities. Debates over how much government should intervene in society continued. Nevertheless, the Progressive Era brought important changes that shaped modern America, including more democratic government, stronger protections for workers, and a greater focus on social justice.

Interesting Fact: The term "muckraker" was first used by President Theodore Roosevelt, who both criticized and praised journalists who uncovered wrongdoing during the Progressive Era.

When did the Progressive Movement begin?

Late 1800sMid 1700sEarly 1600s1950s

What did the 19th Amendment achieve?

Ended child laborBroke up monopoliesGave women the voteCreated settlement houses

Who were muckrakers?

Factory ownersInvestigative journalistsSenatorsUnion leaders

Why did reformers oppose monopolies?

They helped competitionThey set unfair pricesThey supported democracyThey helped workers

How did Progressives help workers?

By raising taxesBy forming labor unionsBy building factoriesBy ending suffrage

Which group did not benefit equally?

Factory ownersAll womenAfrican AmericansAll immigrants