Dbq Reform Movements Essay

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During the time when reform movements were common (1825-1850), people stated the following statement. “Reform movements in the United States sought to expand democratic ideals.” The only question that remains from this statement is if this statement still holds up to its claim. The answer to this question is a definite yes where reform movements did sought to expand democratic ideals. These ideals can range from the common good to egalitarianism and justice. The main ideal that reform movements mainly targeted in the period of 1825-1850 was the common good. The common good is when people work together for the greater benefit of everyone in their community. Before reform movements became common, the United States was the first to attempt to prevent …show more content…

A). This action was towards the common good in order to teach the youths of society to not follow what they were tempted to do, but to know the habits that can make them progress through life, avoid immorality and to make them be a part of a better society. When reform movements became common in the 1830s, one movement targeted religion according to Document B where their belief was, “When the churches are . . . awakened and reformed, the reformation and salvation of sinners will follow, going through the same stages of conviction, repentance, and reformation” (Doc. B). The following sinners that the movement later described were drunks, prostitutes and unbelievers that in their image would convert for the greater good in order to better society by living a normal life than their previous corrupt lives. Though these reform movements targeted only one problem in society, one reform movement summed up all the problems that society faced and wanted to solve these problems by applying justice and love. The problems that