Progressivism The attempts of reformers to solve political, economic, and social problems became known as the Progressive Movement Voting—a fundamental part of democracy President Theodore Roosevelt (1901-1909) Republican Progressive Reforms aka “Square Deal” Nicknamed the “Trust-buster” and “Bull Moose”

Galveston Reforms City Government After the storm of 1900, Galveston moved from a government with a mayor and a city council to a commission form of government Five commissioners made the city laws, and each member was in charge of a city department, such as police, fire, or water. Many Texas cities soon adopted this form of government, as did cities across the nation.

The Terrell Election Law (1903) Required major political parties to hold primary elections to select the party’s official candidates Called for secret ballots Restricted campaigning near polling booths

Arguments for Women’s Suffrage If a woman could be held legally responsible for her actions, she should be able to vote. If women had the right to vote: they would be more effective in their traditional roles they could vote for better schools, more playgrounds, safer parks, and improved public health

Opposition to Women’s Suffrage Women had no need to vote Men represent and protect women’s rights Women involved in politics would neglect their homes and children

Women Gain the Right to Vote In 1918, Texas women made a deal with the new governor, William P. Hobby. They promised to support him in his election if he would sign a bill allowing women to vote in primaries. Hobby agreed, women voted for the first time, and he won by a landslide. In 1920, the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granted full voting rights to women. Gov. William P. Hobby

Arguments for Prohibition Alcohol was at the center of many social problems Saloons were associated with gambling and crime Men would spend their money on alcohol, leaving their family without money to live Supported by Women’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), Anti-Saloon League, and various church groups

Opposition to Prohibition The brewing industry Saloons Conservatives who opposed a strong federal government Many immigrants from Italy and Germany

Prohibition Laws In 1918, Texas approved a statewide prohibition law making it illegal to make and sell alcohol in Texas. In 1919 the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution made prohibition the law of the land. The 18th Amendment was an unpopular law and it was eventually repealed in 1933.

Populism Texas People’s Party (or Populist Party) Their goal was to create government policies that benefitted farmers. Welcomed African American farmers, including J.B. Rayner, a former slave who became a successful writer, politician, and educator.

Evangelical Movement Progressives focused on social morality, a return to religion, and community service. The Young Men’s Christian Association (Y.M.C.A.) was a very influential organization that successfully promoted “daily evangelical Christianity,” while promoting good sportsmanship in athletic contests in gyms.

Discrimination Jim Crow Laws Minorities had inadequate housing and segregated schools lacking basic equipment/supplies Ku Klux Klan was a politically powerful group 1902 - Democratic Party requires payment of a poll tax and adopts a “whites only” restriction for the primary election NAACP and mutualistas are formed to create racial equality and provide community service