read mcgerr ch4 6 7 9
McGerr, Chapter 4: “Ending Class Conflict” and Chapter 5: “Controlling Big Business”
McGerr, Chapter 6: “The Shield of Segregation”
McGerr, Chapter 7: “The Promise of Liberation” and Chapter 8: “The Pursuit of Pleasure”
McGerr, Chapter 9: “The Price of Victory” and Conclusion
One of the major arguments presented by Michael McGerr in A Fierce Discontent is the contrast between what he refers to as “Victorian” and the suceeding “Progressive” values. Explain these differences and similarities by pointing out how Michael McGerr defines both “Victorianism” and “Progressivism,” and specifically the social and political battles fought by Victorians and Progressives. Draw on specific examples from Chapters 2 and 3 that show in concrete terms the distinctions and similarities between “Victorian” and “Progressive” ideologies in the following three areas: first, in terms of class; secondly, in terms of gender and sexuality; and third, in terms of race. In addition to social attitudes and activism, explain how the transition from Victorian to Progressive values translated into laws and policies, especially under the Roosevelt administration. Your essay should begin with a brief introduction about the broad differences between “Victorians” and “Progressives,” no fewer than three supporting points showing this difference in concrete terms, and a conclusion that discusses the Progressive policies developed during the Roosevelt, Taft, and Wilson administrations.
Sample Solution