American socialists based their beliefs on the writings of Karl Marx, the German philosopher. Many asked why so many working Americans should have so little while a few owners grew incredibly wealthy. No wealth could exist without the sweat and blood of its workforce. They suggested that the government should own all industries and divide the profits among those who actually created the products. While the current management class would stand to lose, many more people would gain. These radicals grew in number as industries spread. But their enemies were legion.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

Identify specific examples of grassroots Progressivism relating to the spread of democracy, efficiency in government, and social justice
Describe the more radical movements associated with the Progressive Era