The rise of reformers like Hiram Johnson — Reading Comprehension

Premium Resource

Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.5.3
RI.5.4
W.5.2

About This Reader

This engaging reading passage explores the rise of reformers like Hiram Johnson during the Progressive Era in U.S. history. Students will learn how Johnson and other leaders worked to fight corruption and make government more fair for everyone. The passage uses clear, simple language and a cause-and-effect structure to help students understand why reform was needed, what changes were made, and how these actions still impact us today. Key vocabulary words are highlighted and explained in the glossary. Activities include a comprehension quiz, writing prompts, and a timeline organizer. This lesson aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, ensuring students build both history and literacy skills. A Spanish translation and read aloud audio are also provided to support all learners.

CONTENT PREVIEW

During the early 1900s, the United States changed quickly. Many people wanted to make life better. This period was called the Progressive Era. Leaders called reformers worked hard to fix problems in government and society. One important reformer was Hiram Johnson.

Hiram Johnson was born in California in 1866. He saw that some leaders in government were not honest. Big companies, like railroads, had too much power. Some politicians took money to help these companies, not the people. Hiram Johnson wanted to stop this corruption. He believed government should help everyone, not just the rich and powerful.

In 1910, Hiram Johnson ran for governor of California. His promise was simple: "Kick the Southern Pacific [Railroad] out of politics." He won the election. People trusted him to make things fair.

Once he was governor, Johnson made many changes. He gave more power to the people. He worked for laws that let citizens vote on important issues through referendums and recall elections. These laws meant people could vote to remove leaders who were not doing a good job. He also fought to make voting easier and safer. Johnson said, "The first duty of every public official is to the public and not to a private interest."

Other reformers, like Jane Addams and Theodore Roosevelt, were working in different parts of the country. They all wanted to end unfair treatment and help people have a voice. Johnson worked with them to bring ideas from California to the rest of the country. He even helped start the Progressive Party with Roosevelt in 1912.

Because of Hiram Johnson and other reformers, many states changed their laws. More people could vote. Big companies had less control over government. These changes helped the United States become more fair and democratic.

Interesting Fact: Hiram Johnson served as a U.S. Senator for 30 years after being governor. He continued to fight for fairness in government.

Who was Hiram Johnson?

A reformer and California governorA railroad ownerA famous inventorA school teacher

When did Johnson become governor?

1910186619201900

What did Johnson fight against?

Corruption in governmentBuilding more railroadsTeaching in schoolsBuilding houses

What is a referendum?

A vote on an important issueA new lawA type of trainA speech

Why did Johnson want recall laws?

To remove bad leadersTo build more schoolsTo help railroadsTo make speeches

How did Johnson help people?