Industrialization
Why was the late 19th century called an age of rapid industrialization?
Because new technologies, railroads, factories, and mass production transformed the economy and society quickly
What were some positive consequences of rapid economic growth?
More jobs, cheaper products, urban growth, and improved infrastructure.
What was the main goal of the Progressive Movement?
To fix problems caused by industrialization, corruption, and social inequality
How did Progressives address women’s rights?
They fought for women’s suffrage and access to education and professional jobs.
Name one Progressive president and a reform they supported.
Theodore Roosevelt – trust-busting and conservation.
What role did railroads play in industrial growth?
They connected markets, transported goods faster, and encouraged the growth of industries like steel and coal.
What were some negative consequences of rapid economic growth?
Poor working conditions, child labor, pollution, and growing inequality.
Name one reform the Progressives pushed for.
Labor laws to limit child labor and improve workplace safety.
Name one social problem Progressives tried to fix.
Tenement housing, unsafe food, poverty, and child labor.
How successful was the Progressive Movement by 1920?
Partially successful: it improved labor laws, women’s rights, and government reform, but problems like inequality remained.
How did immigration contribute to industrialization?
Immigrants provided cheap labor, which helped factories expand and produce more goods.
How did big businesses influence politics in the Gilded Age?
They used bribes and lobbying to get laws and policies that favored them.
How did Progressives fight political corruption?
By introducing reforms like the direct election of senators and voter initiatives.
What role did settlement houses play?
They provided education, healthcare, and social services to poor urban communities.
What was the 19th Amendment?
It gave women the right to vote in 1920
Name one key invention of the late 19th century and its impact.
The telephone (Alexander Graham Bell) improved communication and business efficiency.
What was the significance of monopolies?
They reduced competition, allowed big profits, and hurt consumers by raising prices.
Who were muckrakers?
Journalists who exposed problems like corruption, poor working conditions, and unfair business practices.
How did Progressives improve public health?
By pushing for food safety laws, clean water, and better sanitation
How did Progressives regulate big businesses?
By passing antitrust laws, regulating railroads, and setting standards for working conditions.
What was a “robber baron”?
A term for wealthy industrialists who used unfair business practices to become extremely rich.
How did workers respond to poor working conditions?
Through strikes, labor unions, and organizing for better pay and safer workplaces.
How popular were Progressive reforms among ordinary Americans?
Many supported them, especially urban workers and middle-class citizens who wanted change.
Why was prohibition supported by some Progressives?
They believed alcohol caused crime, poverty, and family problems.
Why do historians consider the Progressive Era important?
Because it set the foundation for modern social reforms, government regulation, and increased political participation.