• Research Paper on:
    Comparative Analysis of Progressive and Populist Reform Movements

    Number of Pages: 5

     

    Summary of the research paper:

    In five pages U.S. Progressive and Populist reform movements are contrasted and compared in terms of objectives, ideals, and results. Four sources are cited in the bibliography.

    Name of Research Paper File: JR7_RAprogv.rtf

    Buy This Research Paper »

     

    Unformatted Sample Text from the Research Paper:
    colonist attempting to foreclose on his hunting lands" (Smith, 1972). And, that "As early as 1676, the farmers in Virginia were upset enough about high taxes, low prices and the  payola given to those close to the governor that they followed Nathaniel Bacon into rebellion" (Smith, 1972). In these actions we see the foundations of the Populist movement and the  need for reform according to the movement. Smith (1972) further indicates that "One hundred and ten years later, in an act of ingratitude towards the great American revolution, farmers  of Massachusetts complaining that however men might have been created, they were not staying equal. Under the leadership of Daniel Shays they took on the new establishment in open rebellion  to free themselves high taxes and legal costs, rampant foreclosures, exorbitant salaries for public officials and other abuses." The dreams and ideals of these people continued to grow, however, and  the "populist thread weaves through the administration of Andrew Jackson, an early American populist who recognized the importance of challenging the style as well as the substance of the establishment  value system" (Smith, 1972). It was not, however, until the end of the 19th century that "institutionalized populism" actually had a name (Smith, 1972). Interestingly enough, in the words  of Smith (1972) we hear a defensive tone as he indicates that the issues involved "economic concentration, unfair taxation, welfare and democracy," but that "Critics are quick to point out  that they also included racism and nativism and it has been traditional for liberal historians to emphasize these aspects." This provides us with an understanding of one of the most  controversial aspects of the Populist movement for even those who are not liberals will often admit that racism and nativism were a powerful part of who the Populists were. 

    Back to Research Paper Results