Progressivism 1980-1920 Big Businesses And Politicians

Question 1

What was the reaction against big businesses?

Answer 1

One increasing concern was that the government at a national and state level were too weak to combat the power and influence of big business
Business interests often controlled government officials and procedures.

Question 2

Action against businesses at local and state level

Answer 2

One of the major reforms at state level was to introduce popularly elected senators. Most senators had been appointed by state legislatures and were controlled by powerful business interests.
California was one of the first states to introduce elected senators. Other states followed suit and it became enshrined in the 17th amendment.
The idea was that increased democracy could reduce political corruption and the power of business interests.

Question 3

Actions against big business at a national level

Answer 3

• interstate commerce commission 1887
• 1890 anti Sherman trust act
  These measures were too vague to be effective.

Question 4

What led to the creation of the populist and progressive movement?

Answer 4

The frustrations of the corruption in politics and big businesses.

Question 5

When and what was the interstate commerce commission?

Answer 5

1887
Tried to regulate the railroads by making railroad companies establish their rates. However, they weren’t really monitored or regulated.

Question 6

When and what was the sherman anti trust act

Answer 6

1890
Promote competition and prevent businesses from gaining excessive market power that could harm consumers
Broke up powerful monopolies like standard oil. But had been easily made ineffective in law.