Elections of 1912
The first of the three excerpts from the discussion is titled ‘Progressive Democracy’ published in 1914 authored by Herbert Croly. In this excerpt, the author has advocated ‘Progressivism’ that stands for a variety of responses to the social and financial worries quick industrialization introduced to the United States of America. Progressivism initiated as a communal movement and later on transformed into a political one. The initial followers of progressivism discarded communal Darwinism (Milkis).
The second passage authored by Eugene V. Debs titled ‘Outlook for Socialism in America’ in 1900 talks in favor of socialism and against the then ongoing propaganda by the capitalist opponents of socialism. The author criticizes the rivals of cunningly polluting the minds of Americans by the half-truths such as bloodshed and violence, regarding socialism that according to him was prevailing in the country during that time. The socialists stood firm in turbulent times and made their presence felt to their industry counterparts (Reilly 223-255).
Finally, the third extract that is a speech made by Theodore Roosevelt in 1910 supports American Progressivism. According to the speaker, the country revolutionized after the Civil War. On one side, the war put an end to slavery whilst on the other side, gave a tremendous uplift and momentum to the American industry. The rich businesspersons extended their control over ill-intentioned politicians that brought about disrepute to the rule of law in the United States, but also raised a strong case in favor of truth and open democracy in the country (EISENACH).
In my opinion, the speech made by Theodore Roosevelt in 1910 is closest to the reality that prevailed in the USA at that time. That is the reason; I agree with him the most.
References
EISENACH, ELDON J. "Lonce H. Bailey and Jerome M. Mileur (Eds.), In Defense of the Founders Republic: Critics of Direct Democracy in the Progressive Era (New York: Bloomsbury, 2015, $34.95). Pp. 238.Isbn 978 1 6235 6577 0.” J. Am. Stud. 50.03 (2016): n. page. Web.
Milkis, Sidney. "The Transformation of American Democracy: Teddy Roosevelt, the 1912 Election, and the Progressive Party". The Heritage Foundation. N.P., 2012. Web. 11 July 2016.
Reilly, Kimberley A. "“A Perilous Venture for Democracy”: Soldiers, Sexual Purity, and American Citizenship in the First World War". J. gilded age prog. Era 13.02 (2014): 223-255. Web.
