Question

which of the following best describes the movement of progressivism?
the attempt to improve the lives of the working class, regulate the unchecked power of business & bring about social justice.
the attempt to safeguard the upper class from crime and labor unrest.
the attempt to limit the size of the government by select political parties and upper class individuals.
the attempt to encourage business growth and build a strong middle class.

Explanation:

Progressivism was a reform movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It aimed to address social problems like poor working conditions (hence improving the lives of the working class), the negative impacts of unregulated big - business power (regulating business power), and issues of social inequality (achieving social justice). The other options are incorrect. Safeguarding the upper class (second option) is contrary to the movement's focus on the general public and the working class. Limiting government size (third option) was not a main goal; rather, Progressives often called for more government intervention to regulate and reform. Encouraging business growth without regulation (fourth option) was not the aim; they wanted to regulate business.

Answer:

The attempt to improve the lives of the working class, regulate the unchecked power of business & bring about social justice.