Progressivism Progressivism began in the end of the 19th century and continued in the twentieth century as a series of local movements with many different efforts to improve the society. During the Progressive Era, many women joined volunteer organizations to work for reform. Efforts began at the local level but expanded to the state and national level. Women implemented programs and lobbied for legislation to address social, political, and economic problems so as to improve the lives of many. The status of women changed in the Progressive Era. Middle-class white married women still did not work outside the home. Women in the workforce were mostly young and single, or widows, divorcees, poor married women, and women of color. Most women