The progressives were a large and diverse group who lived in cities and believed that government could be a tool for change as the growth of industries and cities caused social problems for the society. They felt that responding to the effects of rapid industrialization and urbanization was the most crucial issue of the time. The progressives argued that the government should play a role in curbing the excesses of the era. The progressives believed the government had to be involved in solving these issues and that people should be involved more in political matters.
