Which reform movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries aimed to address social issues such as corruption and urban problems?

• A. Liberalism
• B. Progressivism
• C. Isolationism
• D. Realism

Answer: (B)

Progressivism is the reform push that aimed to fix the social problems created by rapid urbanization and to curb political corruption. It grew from concerns about machine politics, tenement living, unsafe work conditions, and the power of big trusts. Reformers believed government, guided by experts and aided by investigative journalism, could improve society. They pushed for concrete changes at many levels: city government reforms to break corrupt systems, regulation of business practices and consumer protection, labor laws and social welfare measures, and democratic reforms like direct primaries and initiatives. While liberalism emphasizes individual rights and limited government, isolationism focuses on foreign policy, and realism is an art/cultural movement, only Progressivism directly addresses the combination of urban problems and government corruption described.