The Progressive Era and Great Depression

Running head: THE PROGRESSIVE ERA AND GREAT DEPRESSION

Progressive Era Through the great Depression

Strayer University

HIS105 - Contemporary U.S. History

February 10, 2013

Abstract

In this paper I will examine the time period of the Progressive Era through the Great Depression. I will look at how some historical events affected America’s current society, economy, politics, and culture. I will write about how women overcame challenges and made contributions and how changes in economic conditions changed people’s mindset and government policy. I will look at how the Spanish-American war changed America into a superpower. Lastly I will look at the Roaring Twenties and governments involvement.

The Progressive Era

The beginning of the 20th century presented the United States with a number of problems which required solutions. The American society was facing numerous economic and social injustices. The fight between labor and business became one of the defining elements of the time. The Progressive Era began in the 1880’s and lasted until the end of the First World War in 1918. The Progressive Era brought new ideas and progressive reforms which continue to affect society today. Among the most important points in the Progressive Era were the Women’s Rights Movement and the creation of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People in 1909.

The Women’s Right Movement was started to show that women were indeed part of nations move to reform the country. One the most important issues addressed by the Women’s Rights Movement was a woman’s right to vote. Women no longer stayed at home; they were working, being educated, and participating in politics. From 1890 to 1913 two major groups were founded to bring attention to women’s suffrage and to push for reforms including allowing women the right to vote. These two groups were the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) and the National Women’s Party (MWP). Through the hard work...