Progressive Reform In The 1920s

Progressive reform was an era (1890s-1920s) of widespread social activism and political reform across the United States. It was a series of efforts by middle-class men and women who became unified by one common goal, which was to address inequality problems that existing in the working-class. Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines progressivism as: the principles and practices of progressives (favoring or advocating progress, change, improvement, or reform, as opposed to wishing to maintain things as they are, especially in political matters). Inequality problems originated from a corrupt government and a culture of elitism created by the successful entrepreneurs. Progressive reform originally began as a social movement and over time grew into
However, it evolved into something more marvelous, that was able to address numerous inequality problems. The Hull-House also included a gymnasium, theater, art gallery, music school, boys' club, auditorium, cafeteria, cooperative residence for working women, kindergarten, nursery, libraries, post office, meeting and club rooms, art studios, kitchen, and a dining room and apartments for the residential staff (Encyclopedia, Chicago). All of these extra tools of social welfare assist many immigrant families trying to survive. The Hull-House provided free education for immigrant children, giving them a chance to become middle class professionals during their adult lives. In addition, children also played on the playground instead of in the streets or in huge garbage boxes, thus removing them from harmful diseases located in the trash (Jane Addams, Twenty Years at Hull-House). Women could become active members in The Hull-House Woman’s Club. One of the main focuses of the Hull-House Women were to decrease the rising death rate. Once the women finished their daily task such as, washing, ironing and cooking supper: they would go up and down ill-kept alleys to talk about the conditions of each neighbor’s garbage boxes (Jane Addams, Twenty Years at
A new voting method was introduced to the public, this method is referred to as the secret ballot (McCormick, Lecture). This method allows voters to anonymously participate in an election without having to deal with intimidation and or potential vote buying. This system is extremely important, as before this was in place, the general public would be controlled by fear of losing their jobs or fear of getting seriously assaulted as all votes were done publicly. Workplaces often exploited women & children forcing them to work long, labor intensive days in dangerous settings. Fortunately, employer welfare was established. This in result, raised wages, provided social clubs, vacations and life insurance (McCormick,