Progressive Movement Practice Exam

What was the purpose of the Food and Drug Administration, established during the Progressive Era?

1. Regulate labor practices in factories

2. Monitor environmental impacts of corporations

3. Ensure the safety of food and drugs

4. Oversee transportation safety

The correct answer is: Ensure the safety of food and drugs

The establishment of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) during the Progressive Era was primarily aimed at ensuring the safety of food and drugs. This period was marked by a growing awareness of public health issues and the need for regulatory oversight in industries that directly affected consumer health. Numerous reports and exposés, such as Upton Sinclair's "The Jungle," highlighted the unsanitary conditions in the food industry, prompting a collective push from the public and reformers for better regulation. The creation of the FDA was a significant milestone in consumer protection, as it empowered the government to oversee the production and labeling of food and pharmaceutical products, ensuring that they were safe for public consumption and accurately represented. This aligns with the broader goals of the Progressive Movement, which sought to address issues of corruption, social injustice, and the welfare of the populace. The focus on food and drug safety reflects the era's commitment to improving the quality of life for citizens and protecting them from harmful practices. While factors such as labor practices, environmental impacts, and transportation safety were indeed critical issues during the Progressive Era, the specific mandate of the FDA centers on food and drug safety, making that the correct focus in this context.