173. Which of the following was NOT a major goal of Progressive Era reformers?
Answer: C
Ensuring equal employment opportunities for all races was NOT a major goal of Progressive Era reformers.
Progressive Era reformers primarily focused on issues like government corruption, business regulation, labor conditions, and expanding voter rights. While racial equality was a concern, it was not a central goal of the majority of Progressive reform efforts.
A) Reining in corruption in state and local governments
This was a significant goal for Progressive reformers who sought to eliminate graft, reduce the influence of political machines, and promote transparent governance. Efforts such as the establishment of commissions and the implementation of direct primaries aimed to address these issues directly.
B) Regulating big businesses and corporate trusts
Progressives aimed to curb the power of monopolies and trusts, advocating for regulations that would prevent unfair business practices. Legislation such as the Sherman Antitrust Act was a direct result of this goal, demonstrating the reformers' commitment to economic fairness.
C) Ensuring equal employment opportunities for all races
While the issue of racial equality was acknowledged during the Progressive Era, it was often sidelined in favor of other reform priorities. Many Progressive reformers did not prioritize racial equality in employment, focusing instead on broader social reforms that did not specifically address these issues.
D) Improving working conditions for industrial laborers
Progressives worked diligently to enhance labor conditions, advocating for laws to limit working hours, improve safety standards, and establish minimum wage regulations. These efforts were a cornerstone of the Progressive movement, reflecting a strong commitment to worker rights.
E) Giving voters more power over the political process
A key objective of Progressive reformers was to enhance democratic participation, which included initiatives such as the introduction of the initiative, referendum, and recall processes. These measures aimed to empower voters and reduce the control of entrenched political interests.
Conclusion
The focus on equal employment opportunities for all races was not a primary goal during the Progressive Era, as reformers were more concentrated on issues affecting the political and economic systems. In contrast, options A, B, D, and E were core objectives aimed at addressing corruption, business practices, labor conditions, and voter empowerment, highlighting the limited scope of racial equality in this reform movement.