Final answer:
The Progressive Era brought significant changes to the United States during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Progressives advocated for social, economic, and political reforms, resulting in expanded government regulations, labor rights, women's suffrage, and the conservation of natural lands. Investigative journalists played a pivotal role in raising awareness about social inequality and encouraging Americans to take action.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Progressive Era, which took place in the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century, brought significant changes to the United States. During this time, a diverse group of reformers known as Progressives advocated for social, economic, and political reforms.
One way Progressives changed the United States was through the expansion of government regulations to promote efficiency and social justice. Legislation such as the Sherman and Clayton Acts regulated trusts and monopolies, while the Meat Inspection Act and the Pure Food and Drug Act ensured consumer safety. Progressives also fought for labor rights, women's suffrage, and the conservation of natural lands through the National Reclamation Act and the creation of the National Park Service. These reforms aimed to address the social and economic injustices of the time.
The Progressive Era also saw the rise of investigative journalists, known as muckrakers, who exposed social inequality and encouraged Americans to take action. The grassroots movements led by Progressives focused on various causes, such as women's rights, temperance, and democratic voting processes. Although the Progressive movement faced opposition and criticism, its impact on American political thought and policies was profound.