Progressive-era reform in municipal politics diminished the influence of working-class and minority residents and resulted in more power for the middle and upper classes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Progressive-era reformers focused on creating more efficient and professional city governments, which often led to the exclusion of working-class and minority residents from decision-making processes. Examples of this include the adoption of nonpartisan elections and the implementation of civil service systems, both of which limited the influence of grassroots organizations and political machines that had previously given voice to these groups. As a result, power shifted toward middle- and upper-class reformers who believed they could govern more effectively without interference from those they considered less educated or invested in municipal affairs.

Progressive-Era Reform in Municipal Politics Diminished the Influence of Working-Class