How did the progressive movement that took place throughout the U.S. in the early 1900s influence Galveston’s residents to select a new type of city government?
The progressive movement in the early 1900s influenced Galveston's residents to select a new type of city government by providing new ideas and reforms that aimed to address social and political issues. Many residents were dissatisfied with the traditional system of government that had led to corruption and inefficiency. The progressive movement advocated for more democratic and efficient governance, with emphasis on professional management and expert decision-making. As a result, Galveston implemented the "commission form of government" in 1901, which replaced the traditional mayor-council system. This new system involved appointing professional commissioners who were responsible for specific areas of city administration, promoting transparency, accountability, and expertise in governance. The progressive movement's ideals and reforms played a crucial role in convincing Galveston residents to adopt this new type of city government.
