Read the text describing women during the Progressive Era and answer the question. "In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, domesticity defined American women's lives. They were expected to maintain the homes to which they had no legal claim, relinquish earned wages to their husbands, and rear the children. Eager to look beyond their home life and gain power and authority within their communities, women, as early as 1830, formed social organizations known as women's clubs. These groups, consisting mostly of middle-class homemakers, centered on protecting mothers and children, explored all issues related to health and welfare, and drove social change. The Progressive Era's maternal reform movement was referred to as domestic politics. Women began to realize they could take part in politics [and] become activists who championed change[.]" — Children's Bureau Express Why did women become increasingly involved in reform movements during this period? (1 point) Responses Concerned about widespread unrest, women wanted to strengthen the traditional social structure. Concerned about widespread unrest, women wanted to strengthen the traditional social structure. Troubled by rising crime rates, women attempted to expand the power of political machines. Troubled by rising crime rates, women attempted to expand the power of political machines. Denied the right to vote, women looked for other ways to have a meaningful impact on society. Denied the right to vote, women looked for other ways to have a meaningful impact on society. Seeking job opportunities, women sought to end child labor to decrease competition for factory work.
