Progressivism Gets Political (and Complicated)

Progressivism wasn’t just feel-good reform—it became a struggle over who controlled American democracy and modern life. In this episode, Mr. Hill, Ms. Keltner, and Dr. Garrison trace how reformers tackled city machines, pushed direct primaries, initiative/referendum/recall, and the secret ballot—while noting who these “clean elections” left out. The Triangle Shirtwaist Fire becomes a turning point, showing how tragedy sparked workplace safety laws. Then we pivot to temperance and the 18th Amendment, and to Progressivism’s darker side: immigration restriction and eugenics. Finally, we follow Roosevelt, Taft, and Wilson—and the era’s enduring contradictions. Along way, we ask what reform means—and for whom.