Final answer:
The Progressive Party distinguished itself from the Democratic and Republican parties by advocating for women's suffrage, labor reforms, and making the government more responsive to the people. Notably, it also called for racial equality during its resurgence in 1948. The party aimed for a more direct democracy and social justice through its progressive reforms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Progressive Party set itself apart from the Democratic and Republican parties through various reforms that focused on increasing democratic participation and social justice. In 1912, the Progressive Party platform specifically advocated for women's suffrage, an eight-hour workday, and workers' compensation, thus addressing social and labor issues that had emerged with the nation's industrialization. The party was distinguished by its intent to make government more responsive to the will of the people, curbing the power of party bosses and political machines, and promoting direct democracy through initiatives like the direct election of U.S. senators and an income tax.The Progressive Party also had phases where it strongly supported racial equality and the rights of African Americans, as seen in its 1948 resurgence under Henry Wallace who called for an end to segregation and universal health insurance. This demonstrates the party's willingness to address social justice issues even beyond the scope of its earlier iteration. Generally, the Progressives were a coalition of former Republicans and some Democrats who sought to reform various aspects of politics and governance, distinguishing themselves in their pursuit of more direct democratic mechanisms and progressive social policies.