American History Tellers

The Progressive Era | Roots of Reform | 1

8 snips
May 7, 2025
Dive into the compelling world of the Progressive Era, where activists and politicians united to combat corruption and improve societal conditions. Discover Theodore Roosevelt's rise to prominence and his vital role in reforming urban living standards. The struggles of immigrants and the fight for social justice against powerful industrial interests emerge vividly. Unpack the tensions of the coal strike crisis and Roosevelt's groundbreaking presidency that aimed to balance corporate power with public welfare. A dynamic narrative unfolds amid a time of significant change.
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ANECDOTE

Roosevelt's Eye-Opening Night Tours

  • Journalist Jacob Rees took Police Commissioner Theodore Roosevelt on night tours of New York's destitute lodgings to reveal urban poverty firsthand.
  • Roosevelt was deeply moved and resolved to shut these police lodging houses and replace them with proper shelters.
ANECDOTE

Jane Addams Faces Backlash

  • Jane Addams mediates in the 1894 Pullman strike but is shunned by wealthy donors for sympathizing with workers.
  • She experienced estrangement from her social class yet remained committed to addressing poverty and injustice.
INSIGHT

Progressives Fight Gilded Age Wrongs

  • The Progressive reform movement arose to address social and economic injustices hidden beneath America's Gilded Age prosperity.
  • Journalists, activists, and politicians harnessed government power to fight corruption and advocate fairness.
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