Progressivism could best be described as a political ideology that is focused on creating social change within a society.
Progressive ideas are seen in American society as far back as the early 1900's. One of the individuals who helped to kick start this movement was Teddy Roosevelt. He helped to start the Progressive Party in 1912. The platform for this party was focused on making changes in American society that would improve America.
For example, Progressives favored taking down monopolies and trusts. This reform would allow for more competition among businesses, ultimately resulting in lower prices for the consumer. Along with this, Progressives also advocated for reforms that would improve America's health. This includes state and federal government inspection of food that was to be sold to citizens. These inspections would end up saving thousands of individuals from food poisoning.
An independent or free press would not be a trait of a fascist government. Fascist governments routinely restrict and suppress the press. It was not uncommon for those governments to control the press and publish official papers which supported their policies.
Well I think the civil rights act of 1964 hasted the end of legal Jim Crow to make sure African American citizens have equal access to restaurants and transportation and other public facilities
