Final answer:
Religion and reform were important due to economic inequality, political instability, and social injustice. Efforts were made to address these issues through the social gospel movement and the settlement movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The issues surrounding religion and reform during this time period were economic inequality, political instability, and social injustice.
Religious institutions, such as urban churches, started the social gospel movement, which aimed to apply Christian ethics to society. This movement focused on addressing issues like income inequality and improving the living conditions of workers. It also led to the establishment of the settlement movement, where reformers lived in poor neighborhoods and provided social services to those in need.
These reform efforts were driven by the challenges brought about by industrialization and urbanization, which caused suffering and discontent. Governments and politicians recognized the need for change and attempted to improve the lives of city dwellers and the working class.