a) The Progressive Movement

Starting in the late 19th century, the Progressive Movement aimed to improve urban conditions and address the problems of industrialization, including poor sanitation, overcrowding, and labor exploitation. Progressives pushed for reforms such as better housing, labor laws, women’s suffrage, and antitrust legislation. This movement was driven by a belief in the efficiency of government intervention in society and the responsibility to address social issues, laying the groundwork for many key reforms in the early 20th century.