What did the Progressive Movement aim to promote?

The Progressive Movement sought to enhance social issues and democracy primarily by addressing the challenges posed by industrialization, urbanization, and corruption in politics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Activists and reformers within the movement aimed to improve living conditions for the urban poor, advocate for women's suffrage, promote labor rights, and address issues like child labor and educational reform.

This movement believed that government could and should play a role in solving social problems, thus promoting a more engaged and informed electorate and expanding democratic participation. The emphasis on social justice, governmental accountability, and reforming the political system was a critical aspect of the Progressive agenda, reflecting a broader commitment to improving society as a whole.

While conservation of resources and environmentalism was indeed a component of the Progressive Movement, it was not the primary aim; rather, it was one of many areas of focus. Reduced governmental influence in business and greater isolationist policies do not align with the core objectives of the Progressive Movement, as reformers typically sought more governmental intervention to regulate businesses and promote social welfare, and isolationism was more a characteristic of later foreign policy discussions.