Reformism, Radicalism, and Progressivism: The Case of Late 19th Century Colorado Politics

Honos, Bálint (2025) Reformism, Radicalism, and Progressivism: The Case of Late 19th Century Colorado Politics. PRO&CONTRA : CENTRAL EUROPEAN STUDIES IN HUMANITIES, 7 (1). pp. 5-22. ISSN 2630-8916

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Abstract

This paper examines the political dynamics of late 19th-century Colorado, focusing on the interplay between reformism, radicalism, and progressivism. The objective of this paper is to integrate classical syntheses that sought to capture the broader conceptual history with the abundant local and regional historical writing. This is done in order to address the limitations of focusing on labels such as reformism, radicalism, and progressivism, as well as the fragmentation of historical research. The careers of Senator Henry M. Teller and Representative John F. Shafroth are central to understanding the juncture of the broader conceptual history and the social history of regions and to ultimately understand the complexities of the era. This study identifies three critical themes in Colorado’s political evolution: the struggle over silver coinage, the loosening ties to political parties, and a constructive attitude towards political institutions. By analyzing these developments, the paper argues that Colorado’s experience provides valuable insights into the broader currents of American political thought during this transformative period. The roles of Teller and Shafroth underscore the complex relationship between regional interests and national policy, revealing how local actors helped shape the political culture of late 19th-century American Politics through political institutions.

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