The text authors conclude that “measured by direct results most Progre

The text authors conclude that “measured by direct results most Progressive reforms proved disappointing”. Discuss at least three specific progressive reform efforts that did in fact prove “disappointing”.

Explain why they achieved less than what was anticipated.

ANSWER
Consider:
Direct Democracy: increased the power of urban machines, caused voter participation to decline, and reduced social services to poor neighborhoods.
Railroad Regulation: benefited large shippers, and the courts usually protected the railroads’ rate setting.
Anti-Trust laws: the “regulators” often served as government partners with big business.
Morality laws: prohibition and anti-prostitution laws often merely profited organized crime and fostered disrespect for law.