Progressive Reforms

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Progressive reforms between the years of 1890 and 1915 had varying results. However, most of the efforts made were positive, and did result in a positive influence over the population as a whole. These reforms were largely related to the common life of everyday people, especially in the areas of industrial conditions and urban life. Some of the progressive reforms were instigated based on current conditions, and some were a result of tragedies or public recognition of horrific circumstances. Therefore, the progressive reforms during the period 1890 to 1915 in relation to industrial conditions and urban life were successful. Industrial conditions were a major concern for the common worker during 1890-1915. Wages were very low, working …show more content…
For example, organizations such as the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and the Anti-Saloon League were formed to combat the rampant use of alcohol and the negative social impact that alcohol had on families, the community, and society as a whole. These groups gathered together to fight for prohibition, and were successful in their attempts. Small towns and counties began to ban alcohol, and the reform movement continued to spread to larger areas. The small scale success of prohibition reform movements between 1890 and 1915 led to a large scale success in 1920 when the 18th Amendment that banned all sale, transportation, and production of alcohol. Urban life reforms also focused on areas such as city life, living conditions, education, and beautification of the city. Because of the increased population, issues with slumlords, tenement living, sewage, and pollution became leading concerns for reformists. For example, the Hull House was developed in Chicago by a group led by Jane Addams as a safe and sanitary location that provided clubs, activities, kindergarten, and a nursery. This was a successful movement that spread to other cities, and also included the development of settlement houses to help immigrants settle in poor neighborhoods. During this same time, laws were being passed to regulate the living conditions of slum and tenements inhabitants. This effort was largely spread as a result of a book written by Jacob …show more content…
Movements that were particularly prosperous were the ones that supported improved industrial conditions and urban living. Although these favorable movements occurred and achieved most of their goals, some failed to succeed during the Progressive Era. The movement to end child labor was specifically unsuccessful, however, it influenced the eventual end of child labor. As a whole, the reforms that arose during the period of 1890 to 1915 were