8.3 Economic and social changes during the Progressive Era

Florida's economy boomed in the early 20th century. Citrus, phosphate mining, and tourism flourished, while railroads and new tech fueled growth. These industries shaped Florida's landscape and attracted workers from diverse backgrounds.

The state's population swelled as immigrants and African Americans sought opportunities. This demographic shift sparked cultural changes, from new ethnic enclaves to evolving social norms. Florida's rapid growth brought both progress and challenges.

Economic Growth and Industrial Development

Growth of Florida's major industries

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• Citrus industry expanded orange groves across Central Florida introduced grapefruit cultivation developed improved cultivation techniques established packing houses and processing facilities
• Phosphate mining discovered deposits in Central and North Florida rapidly grew operations increased demand for fertilizers in agriculture impacted local ecosystems (water pollution, habitat destruction)
• Tourism industry rose luxury hotels and resorts (Flagler's Ponce de Leon Hotel) developed beach destinations promoted Florida as winter getaway emerged attractions (alligator farms, glass-bottom boat tours)

Impact of technological advancements

• Transportation developments expanded railroad networks constructed bridges and improved roads developed ports and waterways (Port of Miami, Tampa Bay)
• Agricultural innovations introduced mechanical harvesting equipment improved irrigation systems used pesticides and fertilizers (DDT, nitrogen-based)
• Communication advancements expanded telephone networks increased access to newspapers and radio (WDAE, first radio station in Florida)
• Electrification constructed power plants expanded electrical grids to rural areas enabled modern appliances and industrial growth
• Public health improvements developed sewage systems implemented water treatment facilities controlled mosquitoes to combat diseases (yellow fever, malaria)

Changing demographics in Florida

• New immigrant groups arrived from Italy, Greece, and Eastern Europe grew Cuban and Caribbean communities in South Florida established ethnic enclaves (Ybor City, Little Havana)
• Great Migration of African Americans moved from rural areas to Florida's cities sought economic opportunities and escape from Jim Crow laws developed African American communities and businesses (Overtown, Miami)
• Population growth increased overall numbers shifted from rural to urban living emerged new towns and cities (Orlando, St. Petersburg)
• Demographic challenges faced racial tensions and segregation encountered language barriers and cultural assimilation issues strained urban infrastructure and services

Social norms and cultural trends

• Consumer culture grew department stores and mail-order catalogs increased advertising and marketing rose brand loyalty and consumerism (Sears Roebuck catalogs)
• Popular entertainment emerged movie theaters and nickelodeons developed amusement parks and boardwalks popularized vaudeville shows and traveling circuses (Ringling Bros)
• Changing gender roles advanced women's suffrage movement in Florida increased women's participation in workforce shifted fashion and social etiquette (flappers, shorter hemlines)
• Education and literacy expanded public school systems established new colleges and universities grew public libraries and reading clubs (University of Florida, Florida State University)
• Progressive reform movements pursued temperance and prohibition efforts enacted child labor laws and workplace safety regulations initiated conservation and environmental protection (Everglades preservation)