Populist and Progressives: a Comparison

Populist and Progressive Comparison From the late 19th to the 20th century citizens saw reform movements as an ideal way to change America’s social, economic, and political systems for the better. The first to emerge were the Populists who were driven by farming competition. The Populist and Progressive movement were similar because supporters from both parties had been cheated by industrialization. Members of both parties wanted economic equality and equal opportunity. Their differences originate from the issues that created the movements and the class of supporters. The Progressive principles emerged out of the Populists foundation in social and economic equality. The supporters of the People’s Party were small farmers whose farming became less viable in the face of commercialized agriculture. Their members were descendants from the Grange Movement and Farmers Alliances. These farmers were mostly westerns who were in large debts to railroads and banks that came joined forces to protect their occupation and their families. They were at the bottom of the social ladder and powerless, as individuals, to big business competition. Many labors did not support the Populists but the “Free Silver” policy attracted miners from the Rocky Mountains. The Progressives were formed from middle class men and women who saw their interests being jeopardized by the interests of the rich and poor. They were brought together primarily by business and government corruption, hazardous working conditions, and women’s rights. A key element of support for this movement came from women’s clubs were women could play a role in remaking American society. The most famous women are Carrie Catt, Ida Tarbell, and Jane Adams. Each helped the Progressive movement tremendously. They no doubt supported women’s suffrage and Feminism. The Populist’s and

Progressive’s supporters were similar because fought for the same goals and all members had economic problems. The occupation of a farmer in 1890 is