Political and Social Reforms

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Primary (Direct)

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A preliminary election where voters in each political party decide their party's candidates.

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Third Party

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A political party that challenges the two major parties, usually because neither is meeting their needs. Examples: Populist and Progressive Parties.

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Populist

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A political party representing the 'common man' (factory workers, farmers, miners); supported government intervention in business. Ran a third-party candidate in 1892 and supported Democrat William Jennings Bryan in 1896.

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Progressives

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Reformers (later a political party) mostly from the middle class who felt threatened by big business. Their platform included political reforms, better working conditions, and women's rights.

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Socialism

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A political and economic theory advocating that major means of production and distribution should be owned and regulated by the government for the good of all.

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Referendum

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Allows citizens to reject or accept a law passed by the legislature.

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Recall

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Gives voters the ability to remove an elected official from office through a special election.

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Initiative

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Allows voters to place an issue or law directly on the ballot for public vote.

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Settlement House

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A social reform effort to improve the lives of the poor by providing services such as daycare, education, and healthcare. Example: Hull House in Chicago.

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Antitrust (Trust Busting)

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Government activities aimed at breaking up trusts or monopolies.