Final answer:
The Progressive movement sought to address problems from the Gilded Age, focusing on government regulation, democracy, and social justice but not on land reform. It represented a departure from laissez-faire practices and aimed for a balance between government oversight and economic freedom.
Step-by-step explanation:
Progressive Movement Description
The Progressive movement is best described as an attempt to address the problems associated with the Gilded Age. This period was characterized by significant economic and social inequalities that led to various social, political, and economic reforms. The movement aimed to correct those deficiencies in American society through increased government regulation, social justice efforts, and democratic reforms. It was not about rolling back the social reforms of the Populist movement, limiting democratic reforms, or preventing businesses from being regulated. Indeed, business regulation and the aim for a more democratic government were hallmarks of the movement.
Progressive Movement Focus
The Progressives focused on several key areas: expanding democracy, regulating businesses, and promoting social justice. However, land reform was not a central focus of this movement. Progressives were more concerned with industrial and urban issues rather than agrarian land issues, which were more central to the previous Populist movement.
Conclusion
Overall, the Progressive movement was an era of widespread reforms that tackled the complex social problems at the turn of the 20th century. The movement brought forth legislation like the Sherman and Clayton Acts, Meat Inspection Act, and Pure Food and Drug Act, which addressed industrial monopolies, consumer safety, and labor abuses. Policies such as direct election of senators, worker's compensation, and the eight-hour workday were also championed. Progressives worked to make the federal government more responsive to the citizens' needs.