In the early twentieth century, a movement called Progressivism was gaining popularity among Americans. The movement was loosely centered around identifying specific social problems, informing the American public about these problems, and then trying to find a solution to the issues. Though the idea of Progressivism was to “correct” problems in American society, many people still believed that the movement did little to change the country’s uncertain future. Those who defended and criticized Progressivism could both find valid points for their arguments in the novel, Ragtime. Points such as how a more productive economy affects the common laborer and how the strife for obtaining human rights drives change in young America. During the nineteenth
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Starting in chapter twenty three with the altercation between Coalhouse Walker and the Emerald Isle Engine Company, and continuing throughout after, the idea of violence as a form of revenge was a major theme. Coalhouse attempted to form a lawsuit against the men, but no attorney will represent him and he is forced to settle on filing a complaint. From there on, Coalhouse decided to take matters into his own hands and started off by attacking the Emerald Isle Engine Company. Supporters of Progressivism could argue that besides the violent road that Coalhouse decided to take, the idea of standing up for himself and demanding retribution was a sign that African Americans were willing to fighting for their basic rights. Critics of Progressivism would immediately point out that the violent reaction Coalhouse had represents the overwhelming tension between not only races but also social classes. Other examples of oppression could be found in the plight of factory worker like those in the Triangle Shirtwaist Company. For months, workers went on strike in order to obtain overall better working conditions. Eventually, the laborers had to return to work, and only succeeded in establishing higher wages and shorter working hours. With large amounts a workplace hazards, it was only a matter of time before a deadly accident came. That huge mishap took
Starting in chapter twenty three with the altercation between Coalhouse Walker and the Emerald Isle Engine Company, and continuing throughout after, the idea of violence as a form of revenge was a major theme. Coalhouse attempted to form a lawsuit against the men, but no attorney will represent him and he is forced to settle on filing a complaint. From there on, Coalhouse decided to take matters into his own hands and started off by attacking the Emerald Isle Engine Company. Supporters of Progressivism could argue that besides the violent road that Coalhouse decided to take, the idea of standing up for himself and demanding retribution was a sign that African Americans were willing to fighting for their basic rights. Critics of Progressivism would immediately point out that the violent reaction Coalhouse had represents the overwhelming tension between not only races but also social classes. Other examples of oppression could be found in the plight of factory worker like those in the Triangle Shirtwaist Company. For months, workers went on strike in order to obtain overall better working conditions. Eventually, the laborers had to return to work, and only succeeded in establishing higher wages and shorter working hours. With large amounts a workplace hazards, it was only a matter of time before a deadly accident came. That huge mishap took