American History Tellers: The Progressive Era | The New Freedom | Episode 5 Summary
Hosted by Lindsay Graham, Wondery’s "American History Tellers" delves deep into the pivotal moments and figures that shaped the United States. In Episode 5, titled "The New Freedom," the focus is on President Woodrow Wilson’s Progressive Era reforms, their triumphs, limitations, and the eventual decline of the Progressive movement amidst global conflict and domestic challenges.
1. Introduction to the Progressive Era and Wilson’s Vision
The episode opens by setting the stage in March 1917, highlighting the tensions within the U.S. Senate as Progressive Republican Senator Robert La Follette leads a filibuster against a bill aimed at arming U.S. merchant ships against German submarines. La Follette fears that such legislation would push the nation closer to war, benefiting industrial magnates over progressive ideals.
Lindsay Graham narrates:
"With Wondery plus, you can experience that vision in its purest form..." [00:00]
2. Early Reforms and Progressive Achievements
a. Tariff Reform and the Underwood Tariff
President Woodrow Wilson’s administration made significant strides in economic reform. One of the early victories was the passage of the Underwood Tariff, which marked the most substantial reduction in tariffs since the Civil War. This reform was complemented by the ratification of the 16th Amendment, allowing for a graduated income tax, positioning progressives to combat economic inequality.
"With his three pronged approach to economic reform, Wilson hoped to expand opportunities to all citizens..." [04:01]
b. Federal Reserve Act
Recognizing the instability of the nation’s financial system, Wilson championed the Federal Reserve Act of 1913. This act established a central banking system, aiming to regulate the economy and prevent future depressions.
"...Wilson sign the Federal Reserve act into law. This act created a government appointed Federal Reserve Board..." [04:01]
c. Antitrust Reforms
Wilson also focused on breaking up corporate monopolies. The Federal Trade Commission Act and the Clayton Antitrust Act were pivotal in preventing unfair trade practices and protecting labor unions, respectively. The Clayton Act, in particular, was hailed as “labor’s Magna Carta” for legitimizing union activities.
"...the Federation Trade Commission act, aiming to prevent unfair trade practices. And they also passed the Clayton Antitrust act..." [04:01]
3. Challenges and Limitations of Progressivism
a. Racial Segregation Policies under Wilson
Despite these achievements, Wilson’s administration exhibited significant shortcomings, especially concerning racial equality. As highlighted in a dramatic reenactment, black civil service workers faced increased segregation and discrimination within federal offices.
"Mr. President, we came here today with this petition signed by 20,000 men and women from 36 states..." [11:00]
b. Opposition from African American Activists
Activists like Jane Addams confronted Wilson about these injustices. However, Wilson’s responses were tepid at best, leading to disillusionment among progressives who had hoped for broader social reforms.
"Mr. President, segregation is an indignity, an insult. It suggests that black Americans are inferior." [14:00]
4. Progressive Movement and World War I
a. Wilson’s Neutrality and the Progressive Dilemma
With the outbreak of World War I in Europe, Wilson initially maintained a stance of neutrality, aligning with many Americans’ desires to avoid entanglement in foreign conflicts. However, factions within the Progressive movement were divided on whether entering the war would bolster or cripple progressive reforms.
"In the early hours of December 4, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson had made the decision to stay out of the war in Europe..." [19:49]
b. The Filibuster by Senator La Follette
As the U.S. edged closer to war, Senator La Follette’s impassioned filibuster became a pivotal moment. Confrontations in the Senate underscored the deep divisions and the lengths to which progressives would go to prevent legislation that could lead to war.
"...La Follette tried to hurl a brass spittoon at the presiding officer. He dared his colleagues to carry him off the floor..." [19:49]
5. Wartime Reforms and the War Labor Board
With the U.S. eventually entering the war in April 1917, Wilson’s administration implemented significant labor reforms to support the war effort. The establishment of the War Labor Board mandated an eight-hour workday for key industries, recognized labor unions, and ensured fair wages.
"With your company, Capital One? What's in your wallet?..." [Note: Advertisement section skipped]
6. Post-War Backlash and the Decline of Progressivism
After World War I, the Progressive movement faced immense backlash. The Red Scare erupted, fueled by fears of socialist revolutions and government crackdowns on labor and immigrant communities. Prominent progressives like Jane Addams were ostracized, and labor reforms began to unravel as the nation yearned for a return to "normalcy."
"During the war, Wilson signed a harsh sedition law that made it a federal crime to criticize the government..." [25:00]
a. The 1918 Midterm Elections and Political Shifts
The 1918 midterm elections saw Republicans regain control of Congress, signaling a societal desire to retreat from progressive reforms and governmental expansion that had characterized Wilson’s administration.
"They promised a return to normalcy..." [28:00]
7. Legacy of the Progressive Era
Despite its premature decline, the Progressive Era left an indelible mark on American politics and society. Initiatives like the Federal Reserve, antitrust laws, and labor reforms laid the groundwork for future governmental interventions and social policies. However, the era also revealed inherent contradictions, particularly in its failure to address racial injustices adequately.
"From the 1890s until World War I, progressives proved that democracy could survive the wrenching changes of the industrial era..." [31:00]
Conclusion
"The New Freedom" encapsulates the ambitious yet flawed vision of the Progressive Era. While Woodrow Wilson’s reforms significantly advanced economic and political structures, the movement grappled with profound social inequalities and external conflicts that ultimately curtailed its momentum. This episode underscores the complexities of reform movements and the enduring struggle to balance progressive ideals with the multifaceted realities of governance.
For an in-depth exploration of how these events set the stage for future reforms and shaped the trajectory of American history, listen to Episode 5 of "The Progressive Era" on Wondery’s "American History Tellers."