Wikipedia: Progressivism in the United States

Progressivism in the United States is a broadly-based reform movement that reached its height early in the 20th century. It is generally considered to be middle class and reformist in nature.

It responded to the vast changes brought by modernization, such as the growth of large corporations and railroads. It reacted to the fears of corruption in American politics.

In the 21st century self-styled progressives continue to embrace concepts such as environmentalism and social justice. Social progressivism, which states that governmental practices ought to be adjusted as society evolves, forms the ideological basis for many American progressives.

It can be contrasted with conservatism which beleives that American values are etched in stone and unchanging since the Founders penned the US constitution. 

One historian defined progressivism as the "political movement that addresses ideas, impulses, and issues stemming from modernization of American society.

Emerging at the end of the nineteenth century, it established much of the tone of American politics throughout the first half of the century."

In the United States there have been several periods where progressive political parties have developed. The first of these was around the turn of the 20th century. This period notably included the emergence of the Progressive Party, founded in 1912 by President Theodore Roosevelt.

This progressive party was the most successful third party in modern American history. The Progressive Party founded in 1924 and the Progressive Party founded in 1948 were less successful than the 1912 version.

There are also two notable state progressive parties: the Wisconsin Progressive Party and the Vermont Progressive Party. The latter is still in operation and currently has several high ranking positions in state government.

Today, most progressive politicians in the United States associate with the Democratic Party or the Green Party US.

In the US Congress there exists the Congressional Progressive Caucus, which is often in opposition to the more conservative Democrats, who form the Blue Dog caucus.

Some of the more notable progressive members of Congress have included Dennis Kucinich, Barney Frank, Bernie Sanders, Sherrod Brown, John Lewis, and Paul Wellstone.

source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progressivism

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