A Fierce Discontent

Here, McGerr recounts the progressive reformers’ efforts to get big business owners to act in the interest of the rest of society at the turn-of-the-century—one of their toughest battles. McGerr claims that business activity posed three great problems in the 20th century. First, large-scale enterprises became increasingly common, and bigger businesses often monopolized resources and shut out competition from smaller businesses. Second, economic interdependence grew. Many businesses—under the control of the upper ten’s wealthiest members—began combining smaller businesses within a particular industry to form a giant corporation to dominate their market. Finally, natural resources and land became limited as business expanded and grew throughout the country. The emergence of these issues prompted Americans—especially, the middle-class progressives—to “reconsider the right of businesses, large and small, to do as they pleased” (411).

Given the clear concerns for the future and longevity of American society inherent in the three big issues, reformers had great success in eliciting support for their agenda from the federal government. However, fighting for the cause of regulating big business proved progressives’ biggest challenge yet. Different classes and social groups held different interests in the battle to regulate big business. Some supported greater government intervention into business practices; others were concerned that increasing government regulation of business practices would eventually result in greater regulation of individuals’ rights as well.