American History: A Survey (Brinkley), 13th Edition

Chapter 20: THE PROGRESSIVES

Essay

1
Consider the "central assumptions" and "impulses" of Progressivism identified at the first of the chapter in light of the varying interpretations offered in the "Debating the Past" section. Was the diverse movement known as Progressivism unified enough to share "central assumptions"?
2
Many Progressives professed to believe that government at all levels should be strong, efficient, and democratic so that it could better serve the people. What changes in the structure and operation of government did Progressives advocate to achieve these aims? Can the attempts at civil-service reform in the nineteenth century be seen as a precursor of this type of Progressive program?
3
To what extent did muckrakers, Social Gospel reformers, settlement house volunteers, social workers, and other experts reflect the central assumptions of Progressivism? How did those assumptions compare with the Social Darwinistic ideas popular in the late nineteenth century?
4
Explain how Progressivism affected women and, conversely, how women affected Progressivism.
5
In what ways did Theodore Roosevelt transform the role of the presidency and the national government? What specific programs resulted from his vigorous executive leadership?
6
Were the differences between the Taft administration and those of Roosevelt and Wilson more a matter of beliefs and objectives or of personalities and leadership styles?
7
Considering Roosevelt's and Wilson's personalities and proposals, what would have happened to domestic reform if Roosevelt had won the Republican nomination in 1912 and become president again?
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