Final answer:
Progressive writers, known as muckrakers, aimed to change the views of the working classes by exposing social problems and advocating reforms. Their articles and books fostered public awareness and legislative change. They were guided by ideals like perfecting democracy, efficiency, reliance on professional expertise, and social justice.
Step-by-step explanation:
Progressive writers, often referred to as muckrakers, attempted to change the views of the working classes in American society by exposing the social inequities and advocating for reforms. These journalists published articles and books highlighting issues like corrupt politics, poor working conditions, and substandard living conditions for the labor class. The work of muckrakers like Jacob Riis in his book How the Other Half Lives played a significant role in influencing public opinion and pushing for legislative change.
Progressive journalists targeted mainly a white, middle-class audience, even though the movement itself encompassed a diverse array of American citizens. Their guiding principles included the perfection of democracy, efficiency powered by science and technology, reliance on the expertise of professionals, and seeing themselves as agents of social justice and reform. Despite sometimes dismissing the voices of those they aimed to help, their conviction drove them to seek out and aid the workers and the urban poor through activism and reform efforts.
Ultimately, Progressive campaigns were diverse, ranging from fighting special interests in politics to promoting safer working conditions, temperance, and women's suffrage. These efforts gained momentum and led to significant reforms at state and federal levels, influencing various aspects of government and society as Progressives sought to address the challenges posed by industrialization and urbanization.