Temperance and Progressivism: A Connection
TITLE
Explain why temperance was a popular idea amongst Progressives.
ESSAY
The temperance movement, which advocated for the reduction or elimination of alcohol consumption, was a popular idea amongst Progressives in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for various reasons.
One key factor that contributed to the popularity of temperance among Progressives was the strong support and advocacy from various groups and organizations such as the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) and the Anti-Saloon League. These groups worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the harmful effects of alcohol on society and campaigned for legal measures to restrict or prohibit alcohol consumption.
Temperance groups found considerable support in Southern states and rural areas in the North, but over time, the movement gained national prominence. This widespread support was indicative of the growing concern among Americans about the social and moral implications of alcohol consumption.
The temperance movement was closely linked with the Progressive movement because both shared similar concerns about the welfare of society. Progressives believed in implementing reforms that would improve the lives of ordinary citizens and address social issues such as poverty, inequality, and public health. The temperance movement aligned with these goals by addressing the negative impact of alcohol on families, particularly women and children, as well as on vulnerable members of society.
Furthermore, temperance was supported primarily by the middle class, who viewed alcohol as a threat to social stability and morality. Working-class individuals, especially Irish and German immigrants, were often portrayed as the primary consumers of alcohol and were subject to moral scrutiny and social control by temperance advocates.
Additionally, the temperance movement targeted powerful business interests such as liquor distillers and their political connections to corrupt politicians. By advocating for temperance and prohibition laws, Progressives sought to challenge the influence of these vested interests on government policies and combat corruption at various levels of governance.
In conclusion, the popularity of the temperance movement among Progressives stemmed from its alignment with the broader goals of social reform and moral improvement. By addressing the societal ills associated with alcohol consumption, temperance advocates aimed to create a more just, equitable, and stable society that reflected Progressive ideals of progress and social welfare.
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**Why Temperance was Popular Among Progressives**
- Various groups campaigned for temperance (and sometimes also prohibition) in this period. Groups such as the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union and the Anti-Saloon League may be discussed by candidates.
- Temperance groups were particularly strong in Southern states and rural areas in the North but by the end of the century the campaign was a national one.
- Temperance became linked with the Progressive movement because it was linked with many of the concerns of Progressive campaigners. It was concerned with the moral fabric of society and the impact that alcohol had on families and vulnerable members of society.
- It was supported primarily by the middle classes and imposed on working-class members of the community – particularly Irish and German immigrants in many towns and cities.
- It was also aimed at controlling powerful business interests (liquor distillers) and their connections with venal and corrupt politicians in city, state, and national governments. Accept any other valid responses.