Which reform movement sought to address problems of industrialization and included efforts to curb monopolies and improve labor conditions?

• A. Recession
• B. Pearl Harbor
• C. Progressive Movement
• D. Prohibition

Answer: (C)

Industrialization created new economic and social problems that reformers tried to fix through government action and social reforms. The Progressive Movement emerged in the late 1800s and early 1900s with a focus on breaking up concentrated economic power and improving conditions for workers. It aimed to curb monopolies by supporting antitrust enforcement and regulatory reforms to check the power of large corporations. It also pushed for labor protections—safer workplaces, limits on child labor, and better working conditions—along with broader reforms to reduce political corruption and promote public welfare. Concrete steps included trust-busting efforts, regulations on industry, and consumer protections like the Pure Food and Drug Act and Meat Inspection Act. Because it centers on addressing the issues directly tied to industrial growth—monopolies and labor conditions—the Progressive Movement fits the description most closely. Recession is an economic downturn rather than a reform movement; Pearl Harbor refers to a historical event, not a reform movement; Prohibition was a temperance reform, not primarily about addressing industrialization problems and labor conditions.