What were the accomplishments of the progressive movement?analyze

In USA history progressive movement refers to the movement
for economic, political and social reforms that began around mid 1890's  and lasted upto
entry of USA in World War I in 1917.

Rapid
industrialization of USA during the nineteenth century caused problems that could be
traced to factors like rise of business monopolies, dishonesty in politics, crowding of
cities and development of slums, and poor working conditions of labour force. The
progressive movement made considerable contribution in 1890's and early 1900,
campaigning by many reformers helped in introducing laws aimed at reducing these
problems.

The reforms of progressive movement included
regulation of business practices, tax reforms, control on monopolies. The tax reforms
included taxes based on income rather than property.

Many
reformist politician occupying government offices also worked to end corruption in law
enforcement, public transportation, and other city services. Also political powers of
the voters was increased by legislation which gave them additional powers such as recall
of a person from public office before his or her term ended. Also cities were given
right to home rule. Under referendum laws the voters could pass laws without the need
for the state legislature's approval, and overrule laws adopted by the legislature. The
17th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution adopted in 1913, provided for the direct
election by the people of U.S. senators.

In the area of
social reforms many states passed housing regulations to help improve the conditions in
crowded slums. Centres called settlement houses were established by reformists where
reformers and slum residents met and worked to improve slum
conditions.

To improve working conditions of labour state
laws were introduced that required safety precautions in factories and provided for
compensation to workers for injuries suffered at work.  Also minimum wage were
introduced by some states.