Big Businesses During The Progressive Era

The late 1800’s to the early 1900’s is known as America’s Progressive Era. During this time, big businesses were giving Americans more opportunities than ever before. However, within the big businesses people were mistreated and overlooked. This led to many groups trying to solve the problems caused by big industries. These groups sought out the problems such as lengthy work days, lack of disability, no paid holidays, no safety codes, and pay cuts. America had a philosophy that allows businesses to operate without intrusion from the government, so it was up to only the employees on the inside to make their demands a reality.
A group that wanted to regulate corporations were called the progressives. The progressives were centered in America’s cities instead of rural areas, like most were. Their leaders were made up of teachers, religious leaders, lawyers, and owners of small businesses. They wanted honest government, with power in the hands of the people. They wanted an active government that would regulate big business. When they voiced themselves, they spoke of improved labor conditions for women, children, and
However, the progressives weren’t the only people trying to regulate big business. Farmers wanted big business regulated as well, mostly because the economy was not in their favor at the time. It was hard for these smaller groups to be recognized at any higher level than local, so when attempts failed they went to the federal government. Who in turn created the The Interstate Commerce Act of 1887. This marked the beginning of federal regulation of big business. The idea behind the Interstate Commerce Act was to stop railroads from forming pools, giving rebates, or charging unfair rates. Within the act was another group called the Interstate Commerce Commission which was supposed to oversee the railroad