Robert M. LaFollette Positively Impacted American Society

Robert M. LaFollette Positively Impacted American Society
The Progressive Era, which lasted between the 1890s and 1920s was characterized by intense political and social reforms aimed at improving American society. Various prominent figures arose to lead the way, one of whom was Robert M. LaFollette, born June 14, 1855, in Primrose, Wisconsin. He died on June 18, 1925, after a remarkable law and political career and a legacy that was emulated by his predecessors. The focus of this essay is to examine whether LaFollette made a significant positive or negative impact on American society and/or government. In this case, the position taken is that LaFollette positively impacted American society through progressive legislation that transformed America.
One of the most significant legacies of La Follette includes the direct primary and the comprehensive civil service act. By the time he left the governor's office to join the senate in 1906, La Follette's achievements include the thorough and efficient reforms of both the railroads and other utilities. Additionally, there were civil service reforms for the officeholders, strong opposition and provisions against corruption in government, strict rules for lobbyists, tax reforms, and environmental measures that included a program for forest conservation (Unger, 2018). According to (Honeywell, 1995), one of the most enduring and important legacies of La Follette is the Wisconsin Idea. This is a philosophy that was embraced by the University of Wisconsin System that is built on the notion that university research ought to be used to solve problems and improve aspects of human life, including the quality of life, agriculture, health, and the environment. As a result, the university became a symbol of the state due to wha...