During the progressive era the principle of the social gospel were most consistent with the goals of ...

The progressive era was a period of widespread social activism and political reform throughout the United States, spanning from the 1890s to the 1920s. 1 The main objectives of the progressive movement were to eliminate the problems caused by industrialization, the urbanization processes, immigration and political corruption.

Before World War I, the Social Gospel was the religious wing of the progressive movement that aimed to combat injustice, suffering and poverty in society.

For his part, the Rev. Mark A. Matthews (1867-1940) of the First Presbyterian Church in Seattle was a major reformer of the city, who investigated the districts of the red light and crime scenes, denouncing corrupt politicians, men of business and salon owners.

Instead, the South had its own version of the Social Gospel, focusing especially on dry law. Other reforms included banning public oaths, boxing and dog and afrenta fighting similar to their moral sensibilities.