In my opinion, the key principles of the Progressive Movement were democracy, municipal administration, efficiency, the regulation of large corporations and monopolies, social work, and conservationism. In my opinion, the most significant successes of the Progressive Movement were the constitutional amendments and improvements in the democratic process. Our text tells us “The Progressive use of the amendment created lasting effects on our political system and is often considered the greatest success of the entire movement” (Bowles, 2011). The 16th amendment allowed the federal government to begin collecting income tax from all workers. The 17th amendment gave citizens the power to elect U.S. senators and was a result of the direct primary reform in Oregon. This was important because it allowed voters to choose candidates for office instead of political party leaders (The Progressive Era, 2002). The recall, referendum, and initiative are all examples of Progressive reform that brought more democratic power to the common people. The Progressive Movement’s significant failure, in my opinion, was in regard to racial equality. Even though they fell short of their intentions, we must remember how ambitious their goals were. The Progressive Movement missed their target because they aimed to do too much. I do not think that World War I can be regarded as a Progressive conflict. The First World War was a road block to Progressive reform until the rich, who had fought alongside the poor, returned from overseas.
References:
(2002). The progressive era [Television series episode]. In America in the 20th Century. New York, NY: Films for the Humanities & Sciences. Retrieved from http://digital.films.com/OnDemandEmbed.aspx?Token=36215&aid=18596&Plt=FOD&loid=0&w=640&h=480&ref=
Bowles, M. (2011). American history 1865–present: End of isolation. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc.