Progressives believed that __.
A. the government should follow a policy of Social Darwinism
B. industrialization and urbanization caused many of society’s problems
C. muckraking journalists should be put in jail
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. industrialization and urbanization caused many of society’s problems.
Explanation:
Progressivism was a reform movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States, responding to the rapid industrialization and urbanization of the period. Progressives believed that the changes brought about by these forces created significant social issues, such as poverty, labor exploitation, corruption, and poor living conditions in urban areas.
Industrialization led to the rise of factories and mass production, which, while boosting the economy, also resulted in harsh working conditions, long hours, and low wages for many workers. The rapid influx of people into cities caused overcrowding, inadequate housing, and strained public services, exacerbating issues like crime and disease. Progressives aimed to address these problems through various reforms.
One significant aspect of Progressivism was the belief in using government action to improve society. Progressives advocated for regulations to protect workers’ rights, such as labor laws, minimum wage standards, and safety regulations. They also pushed for social welfare programs to assist the poor and promote public health initiatives.
Muckraking journalists played a crucial role in the Progressive movement by exposing corruption and social injustices. Their investigations brought public attention to issues such as child labor, corporate malfeasance, and the squalid conditions in urban tenements. Rather than advocating for censorship or imprisonment of these journalists (as implied in option C), Progressives often supported their work, believing that an informed public was essential for democracy and reform.
In summary, Progressives recognized that industrialization and urbanization created numerous societal challenges, and they sought to use government intervention as a means to address these issues and promote social justice.