Who, exactly, were the Progressives? One historian writes that they “offered an

impressive array of reform proposals.” Why did they do so? What was our country like

during the Gilded Age? What, exactly, were these proposals and what benefit did they

bring to “life in these United States?” To what extent was the nation altered by their

proposals? Please explain why the U.S. did (or did not) become a “kinder, gentler

nation” as a result of the Progressive movement. Finally, how do some historians assess

the Progressives? What examples from the Progressive Era and from today can you

provide to support or refute their arguments?

1) Your response to the question must be typed—twelve point font, double-spaced.

2) In your response, try to mainly use only your assigned text(s), the instructor’s

handouts, or class notes taken from discussions. You may use additional

library or internet scholarly sources.

3) Your generalizations must be supported by direct citations from the text, class

notes, or instructor’s handouts.

4) Citations should be made in MLA format. For class notes or presentations, you

might use: (Discussion Board 1) or (class notes) or (Zinn 23).

Note: You must cite parenthetically throughout your narrative. Please follow this format. There

should be many citations throughout your response taken from the sources noted above because

assumptions and interpretations must be bolstered by citations.

The strength of your response is dependent largely upon your citation of the assigned sources.

5) Do not include a bibliography.

6) You may consult with your classmates in formulating an answer to this question.

However, you must write your own, unique, independent answer to this question. 

7) At least five pages.