Ep 14. Early Progressives Were Not Liberals

In the fourteenth episode of The Skeptic's Guide to American History season 1, we explore the often misunderstood relationship between Early Progressive Movement and liberalism. Despite being grouped together under the umbrella of "progressivism," the two movements differed in their goals and methods, with the Early Progressives emphasizing social responsibility and civic duty while rejecting the laissez-faire capitalism and classical liberal ideals often associated with liberalism.

Host Brian Dunning is joined by guest expert David Stebenne, author of "Promised Land: How the Rise of the Middle Class Transformed America," as they dive deep into the history and evolution of the Early Progressive Movement and its place in American politics. Interspersed with historical reenactments and period-appropriate images, the episode provides an engaging and informative overview of a pivotal moment in America's social and political development.

Drawing on primary sources and historical scholarship, Stebenne challenges the commonly held belief that Early Progressives were simply a more extreme version of American liberalism. Instead, he argues that the Early Progressives saw themselves as a distinct movement, one that rejected the dominant liberal philosophy of the day in favor of more collective action and social responsibility.

Among the topics covered in the episode are the role of the Early Progressives in promoting labor rights and fair wages, expanding access to education and healthcare, and challenging the concentration of power in the hands of wealthy industrialists. Stebenne and Dunning also take a critical look at the political and social struggles of the period, including the rise of the social gospel movement, the impact of World War I, and the struggle for women's suffrage.

Throughout the episode, Stebenne emphasizes that the Early Progressives were motivated by a desire to create a more just and equitable society for all Americans, rather than simply pursuing their own narrow self-interests. He also explores the links between the Early Progressive Movement and contemporary social and political movements, including the Occupy and Black Lives Matter movements.

Overall, The Skeptic's Guide to American History season 1 episode 14 provides a fascinating and thought-provoking look at a key moment in America's social and political development. With its engaging style and rigorous scholarship, it is sure to appeal to anyone interested in understanding the complexities of American history and the ongoing struggle for social justice.