Progressive Era to New Era, 1900-1929

Answer 1

The period from 1900 to 1929 in American history is marked by significant social, political, and economic changes, transitioning from the Progressive Era to the New Era. Here’s an overview of key developments during this time:

Progressive Era (circa 1890-1920)

1. Social Reform Movements: The Progressive Era was characterized by a strong push for reforms aimed at addressing problems caused by industrialization, urbanization, and corruption in politics. Key movements included:

   • Labor Rights: Advocacy for workers’ rights, shorter workdays, and better working conditions.
   • Women's Suffrage: The fight for women's right to vote culminated in the 19th Amendment in 1920.
   • Temperance Movement: The push for the prohibition of alcohol, leading to the 18th Amendment in 1920.
   • Education and Public Health: Expanding access to education and addressing public health issues, including campaigns against child labor.

2. Political Reforms: Progressive reformers sought to improve democracy through measures like:

   • Direct Primaries: Allowing voters to select party nominees directly.
   • Initiatives and Referendums: Enabling citizens to propose and vote on legislation.
   • Recall Elections: Allowing voters to remove elected officials from office.

3. Antitrust Actions: The federal government, under Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, used antitrust laws to break up monopolies, such as the Northern Securities Company.

4. Conservation Movement: The era saw an emphasis on conservation of natural resources, led by figures like Roosevelt, who established national parks and forests.

Transition to the New Era (1920-1929)

1. Economic Prosperity: The post-World War I period ushered in an economic boom characterized by industrial expansion and rising consumerism. Mass production techniques, such as assembly lines pioneered by Henry Ford, made goods more affordable.

2. Cultural Changes: The New Era was marked by significant cultural shifts, including:

   • The Roaring Twenties: An era known for its jazz music, flapper culture, and a break from traditional social norms.
   • Prohibition (1920–1933): While intended to curb alcohol consumption, the 18th Amendment led to the rise of speakeasies, bootlegging, and organized crime.

3. Technological Innovations: Advances in technology transformed lifestyle, including:

   • Automobiles: The widespread adoption of cars.
   • Radio and Film: New forms of entertainment that became central to American life.

4. Social Changes: The migration of African Americans from the rural South to urban areas in the North, known as the Great Migration, led to vibrant cultural movements such as the Harlem Renaissance.

5. Political Landscape: The New Era saw a retreat from Progressive ideals, with a focus on pro-business policies, less government intervention in the economy, and a longing for stability after the upheaval of the Progressive reforms.

6. Foreign Policy Shift: The U.S. adopted a more isolationist stance in foreign affairs post-World War I, aiming to avoid entanglement in European conflicts.

Conclusion

The years 1900 to 1929 encapsulate a transformative period in American history. The Progressive Era laid the groundwork for a more active role of the government in social issues, while the New Era shifted focus towards economic prosperity and cultural dynamism, setting the stage for the challenges of the Great Depression that began in 1929.