Progressive Movement Practice Exam

What was one outcome of Progressive reforms in labor conditions?

1. Shorter work hours

2. Higher wages for all workers

3. Elimination of child labor

4. Mandatory holidays for all employees

The correct answer is: Shorter work hours

Shorter work hours emerged as a significant outcome of Progressive reforms in labor conditions. The Progressive Movement, which took place predominantly in the early 20th century, aimed to address various social and economic issues, including the rights and well-being of workers. Reformers advocated for better working conditions, and one of their key objectives was to reduce the number of hours that individuals spent working. This reform was motivated by the understanding that excessively long working hours not only compromised workers' health and safety but also diminished their quality of life. Labor organizations and activists successfully lobbied for changes in legislation that led to the establishment of limits on work hours, particularly for women and children. This advancement was foundational in the development of labor rights and paved the way for further improvements in working conditions, including the introduction of the eight-hour workday. While the other outcomes, such as higher wages for all workers, elimination of child labor, and mandatory holidays, were also important goals of the Progressive Movement, they did not uniformly result from the reforms across the board. The fight for higher wages remained a continual struggle, child labor laws were variably enforced, and mandatory holidays were not universally adopted. Hence, shorter work hours stand out as a clear, measurable achievement stemming from the Progressive