2.6 Corruption, Progressive Era Reforms & Accountability

In the early 20th century, the rise of the Progressive Movement in the United States and similar movements elsewhere brought about significant reforms aimed at reducing corruption and increasing accountability in public service. Corruption refers to the abuse of power by government officials for personal gain, which can include bribery, embezzlement, nepotism, and other forms of dishonest or unethical behavior.

Corruption in government has far-reaching negative effects. It erodes public trust in government institutions, as citizens lose confidence in their leaders and the belief that their government acts in the public’s best interest. This erosion of trust weakens the social contract between the government and its people, making it more difficult for public institutions to function effectively.  

Corruption leads to inefficiency and waste within government. Public resources that should be used for essential services, infrastructure, and social programs are often misallocated or diverted for personal gain. As a result, public projects are delayed or compromised, and critical services are underfunded or poorly delivered. Furthermore, corruption exacerbates social and economic inequalities. It often benefits a small, powerful elite at the expense of the broader population, leaving marginalized and vulnerable groups without access to the resources and opportunities they need. This not only deepens inequality but also undermines social cohesion and the overall well-being of society.  

The people in Progressive Movement sought to address these issues by implementing significant reforms aimed at reducing corruption and increasing transparency and accountability in public service. One of the key achievements of this movement was the establishment of merit-based hiring practices through the civil service system, which aimed to professionalize public administration and reduce the influence of political patronage. By focusing on merit rather than political connections, these reforms helped to create a more efficient and effective public service, better equipped to meet the needs of citizens.  

In addition to civil service reforms, the Progressive Era also saw the creation of independent oversight bodies and regulatory agencies designed to hold government officials accountable for their actions. The establishment of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 1914, for example, was intended to prevent unfair business practices and promote consumer protection, reflecting a growing commitment to public service ideals within the government. Anti-corruption initiatives during this period also gained momentum, with efforts to expose and prosecute corrupt public officials. Muckraking journalists played a crucial role in raising public awareness and prompting reforms by investigating and publicizing corruption in government and business.  

These early 20th-century reforms laid the foundation for modern efforts to combat corruption and promote accountability in public service. In the years that followed, additional measures were introduced to further enhance transparency and integrity in government. The development of ethics codes, transparency laws, and freedom of information laws in many countries has made it easier for the public to access government records, increasing transparency and holding public officials accountable. The establishment of independent watchdog agencies and anti-corruption commissions has further strengthened efforts to ensure that public servants adhere to the highest standards of integrity, helping to protect the public good and maintain trust in government institutions.