Who were the main proponents of the Progressive Movement?

The main proponents of the Progressive Movement were primarily middle-class reformers advocating for social justice. This group emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to the rapid industrialization, urbanization, and social issues that characterized American life at the time. These reformers aimed to address problems such as poverty, inequality, and the influence of corporate power in politics. They sought to improve living and working conditions, expand democracy, and promote social welfare through a variety of means, including legislation, education, and grassroots activism.

This focus on social justice distinguished the Progressive Movement from other movements and allowed it to influence a range of reforms, including women’s suffrage, labor rights, and anti-corruption measures in government. The commitment to using government as a tool for social improvement was a hallmark of the movement, aligning with the idea that the state could enact positive change in society.

In contrast, wealthy industrialists advocating for a free market often resisted the reforms sought by Progressives, while farmers addressing railroad monopolies were focused on their specific struggles rather than the broader societal changes promoted by the movement. Political leaders seeking increased government control could sometimes align with Progressive ideals, but they were not the foundational proponents of the movement. Instead, it