Name the four constitutional amendments associated with the Progressive Era that expanded democracy or reform.

• A. 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th
• B. 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th
• C. 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th
• D. 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th

Answer: (A)

During the Progressive Era, reformers used constitutional changes to expand democracy and modernize government. The four amendments tied to that era are the 16th, 17th, 18th, and 19th. The 16th creates a federal income tax, giving the national government a steady revenue stream to fund reform programs. The 17th shifts the election of U.S. senators to direct popular vote, increasing accountability and democratic participation at the federal level. The 18th enacts Prohibition, reflecting the era’s push for social reforms and moral improvement (even though it was later repealed). The 19th grants women the right to vote, dramatically expanding democratic participation. Taken together, these amendments symbolize the Progressive Era’s goals of reducing corruption, empowering voters, and advancing social reform. Other sets either involve amendments from earlier eras or include amendments not typically grouped with Progressive Era reforms, so they don’t fit as neatly with this focus.