Final answer:
The origination of the progressive movement was due to a combination of economic inequality, political corruption, and social injustice, exacerbated by the rapid industrialization and urban growth during the Gilded Age. Activists sought to address these issues through expanded democracy, investigative journalism, and a belief in applying scientific management and professional expertise to societal problems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main reason that led to the origination of the progressive movement was a response to the challenges such as economic inequality, political corruption, and social injustice which emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries during rapid industrialization and urbanization in the United States. The movement consisted of activists and reformers with different backgrounds and agendas, all aiming to address these issues that arose from the Gilded Age and increased industrialization. Investigative journalism played a significant role by uncovering these societal problems and mobilizing the public to support progressive reforms.
During this time, figures like Wisconsin's Robert M. La Follette championed political reforms to curb the influence of special interests, while others focused on social justice for disadvantaged groups, safer working conditions, and the regulation of alcohol sales. The Progressives believed in expanded democracy, meaning that more direct control by Americans over their government would lead to better outcomes for citizens. While there were varied priorities within the movement, the shared objective was to forge a system that balanced democracy with efficiency, used scientific approaches, and valued professional expertise to guide economic and social reforms.