Progressivism under Taft US History

Key Concepts The roles of the Progressive Presidents: Roosevelt, Taft, and Wilson The growing power of the electorate The changing roles and influence of women The impact of political and economic changes on the working class The changing nature of state and local governments

Taft becomes President 1908 - TR didn’t seek another term Chose William H. Taft as successor Taft won easily over W.J. Bryan pursued progressive reforms cautiously busted 90 trusts - received little credit Progressives wanted bolder steps to regulate monopolies

In the Shadow of Teddy Payne-Aldrich Tariff compromise tariff It lowered some tariffs but raided others satisfying neither conservatives or progressives progressives wanted drastically lower tariffs law angered progressive leaders

Republican Party Splits Taft’s cautious nature prevented him from holding together both conservatives & progressives w/in the Rep. party 1910 Congressional Elections Republicans lost control of House (1st time in 18 yrs) Ballinger-Pinchot Affair Taft appoints Richard Ballinger Sec. Of Interior Ballinger removed 1 million acres from reserved list & returned it to public domain Angers TR, who will run against Taft in 1912

Bull Moose Party 1912 TR decided to run for a 3rd term Rep. Party split in support for TR or Taft TR’s supporters est. the Bull Moose Party (Progressive Party) progressive platform called The New Nationalism Democrats nominated NJ governor Woodrow Wilson

Election of 1912 Wilson endorsed a progressive platform Called his platform the New Freedom stronger antitrust legislation, banking reform, & reduced tariffs Rep’s split btwn Taft & TR Wilson supported small business & free market competition Wilson won only 42% of pop. Vote, but overwhelming electoral victory Dem’s also won Congressional elections