Final answer:
The Progressive Movement fought for women's suffrage, which was met with opposition by those fearing social upheaval and government overreach. Despite resistance, suffrage was a major step towards democracy and equality in America, ultimately leading to the 19th Amendment.
Step-by-step explanation:
- The Progressive Movement of the early 20th century aimed to address a wide array of social ills and inefficiencies that had arisen during the Gilded Age.
- One notable progressive move forward was the fight for women's suffrage, which was propelled by the formation of national organizations and the leadership of outspoken activists committed to securing women's right to vote.
- This reform was met with significant opposition by those who believed it would disrupt the traditional social structure and feared that increased participation by women in politics might change the balance of power.
- The reaction against this progressive move was not just based on social conservatism, but also on concerns about creating a more powerful federal government.
- Some feared that the increased regulation and social reforms advocated by Progressives might lead toward socialism, as government entities gained power potentially at the expense of business interests and individual autonomy.
- Despite this backlash, many Americans saw the success of the women's suffrage movement with the passing of the 19th Amendment as a crucial step towards a more democratic society and an affirmation of American principles of equality and justice.