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Progressive conservatism facts for kids

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Progressive conservatism is a political idea that mixes parts of conservative and progressive thinking. It tries to bring together older, traditional ideas with newer, forward-looking ones.

People who believe in progressive conservatism think the government should help those in need. They support a "social safety net" to protect people from poverty. This means things like unemployment benefits or healthcare. They also believe in a small amount of sharing of wealth to make things fairer.

This idea also suggests that the government should have some rules for businesses and markets. These rules help both people who buy things (consumers) and people who make things (producers).

What is Progressive Conservatism?

Progressive conservatism is a way of thinking about how a country should be run. It combines two main political ideas:

  • Conservatism: This often means keeping traditions and valuing personal freedom.
  • Progressivism: This usually means wanting social change and government action to solve problems.

So, progressive conservatism tries to find a middle ground. It wants to keep what is good from the past while also making improvements for the future.

Key Ideas of Progressive Conservatism

Progressive conservatives often focus on a few main points:

  • Helping people in need: They believe the government should provide a safety net. This helps citizens who are struggling.
  • Fairness in wealth: They support a limited way of sharing wealth. This helps reduce big differences between rich and poor.
  • Government rules for business: They think the government should set rules for markets. These rules protect both buyers and sellers.

Where Did Progressive Conservatism Start?

This political idea first became clear in the United Kingdom. It was under Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli in the 1800s. His approach was called "One Nation" Toryism. Disraeli believed that society should work together as "one nation." He felt the rich had a duty to help the poor.

Progressive Conservatives in the UK

Many British Prime Ministers have been seen as progressive conservatives. These leaders tried to balance traditional values with social improvements.

The Catholic Church also has a similar idea. In 1891, Pope Leo XIII wrote Rerum Novarum. This important letter talked about workers' rights and social justice. It is a progressive conservative doctrine known as social Catholicism.

Progressive Conservatism Around the World

This political idea has appeared in many countries. Leaders in different parts of the world have adopted similar approaches.

In the United States

In the United States, Theodore Roosevelt is a famous example. He was president in the early 1900s. Roosevelt believed that "wise progressivism and wise conservatism go hand in hand." He wanted to protect natural resources and control big businesses.

Other US presidents also showed progressive conservative ideas:

In Germany

In Germany, Chancellor Leo von Caprivi promoted a "New Course" in the late 1800s. This was a progressive conservative plan. It aimed to improve social conditions for workers.

In Canada

Canada has a strong history of progressive conservatism. The main conservative political group was even called the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada. This name was used from 1942 to 2003.

Several Canadian Prime Ministers led progressive conservative governments:

These leaders often focused on social programs and economic growth. They tried to balance traditional conservative values with modern social needs.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Conservadurismo progresista para niños

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