The Progressive Era was a period of American history that is said to have lasted from 1890 to 1920.[1]
The politics of this period consisted of several ideals. These were that the government should intervene in society to achieve ends of social justice and that the American people should settle for nothing less than perfection in their society.[2] One group that was often in favor of the ideas of the Progressive Era was the Muckrakers. These were journalists who reported on corruption and other inequalities in American society.[3]
During the Progressive Era, various reforms[4][5][6] were undertaken to bring about greater social justice in American society. Milk codes were drawn up in most cities, while milk depots were set up. As noted by one study, these depots “sold milk at cost or provided it free of charge for needy persons.” Progress was made in tackling slum housing, while City governments established a wide range of services. These included free school meals for poor school children, free dental and medical examinations for school children, day nurseries, baby clinics, and public playgrounds. In addition, a number of laws were introduced to help farmers[7][8] and workers.[9][10][11][12]
↑Historical Dictionary of the Progressive Era, 1890-1920, Editors: Edward R. Kantowicz, John Buenker, published 1988