<P><B> </B> This book in the Seminar Studies in History series is a useful introduction to a key period in American history from the 1890s to the First World War. Books in this Seminar Studies in History series bridge the gap between textbook and specialist survey and consists of a brief "Introduction" and/or "Background" to the subject, valuable in bringing the reader up-to-speed on the area being examined, followed by a substantial and authoritative section of "Analysis" focusing on the main themes and issues. There is a succinct "Assessment" of the subject, a generous selection of "Documents" and a detailed bibliography.<B></B> Addresses the major issues of the period including the emergence of the progressive movement in the 1890s, the expanded role of government, the measures implemented to bring political parties under control and the role of women. Finally, Lewis Gould places progressivism in its historical perspective. <B> </B> For people interested in American history. </P>