The Negative Impact Of Political Reforms During The Progressive Era

The Progressive Era, also known as the Gilded Era, spanned the late 1800s until the early 1900s. During this time, there were many reforms that came along. They spanned every area from politics to society, to the environment, and consumers. Some of these reforms we still have today, and others were left behind with the era.
Many of the political reforms helped citizens have a more direct impact on the political process. Four of these measures include a direct primary, which allowed voters to choose the candidates who will run for each party directly, included in the 17th amendment. Referendums allowed voters to vote on which laws became law, a recall makes it possible for voters to get elected officials out of office before the end of their term, and initiative allowed citizens to bring new bills to their elected officials. Another reform limited the power of big city bosses, who would influence government officials to create legislation that …show more content…
One of the most infamous was the 18th amendment which prohibited alcohol and brought in the Prohibition Era. Child labor received a massive overhaul. The National Child Labor Committee, armed with photos taken by Lewis Hine that exposed the conditions the children were working with, pushed for legislation to limit the age and the number of hours children could work. Their effort was aided by school attendance requirements. As well as child labor regulations, there were ones for women. Long works hours were limited because they were detrimental to their health, as presented in Mueller vs Oregon. This was furthered by the Triangular Shirtwaist Company fire which killed 146. This led to a 54-hour work week, new factory rules, and building regulations. Women also received suffrage in 1920 courtesy of the 19th amendment, which was preceded by multiple western states granting it and the Democratic platform in 1916 calling for the other states to follow suit. Society experienced many