With the widespread expansion of railroad networks came easier transportation and urbanization. Immigrants in search of the “American Dream” also added to the increase in city populations. What were the primary reasons for the farmers' revolt in the late 19th century? The primary reasons for the farmers’ revolt in the late nineteenth century were falling crop prices, high transportation costs, and increasing debt burdens from loans and mortgages. The dominance of railroad companies and big corporations added to the stress of these farmers, causing them to call for government intervention. Explain what caused the U.S. to become imperialist in the late 1890’s? The United States became imperialist, or having a policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force, because of economic, strategic, and ideological factors. American exceptionalism drove the government to acquire Hawaii and territories in the Philippines. Naval bases established in these areas grew American influence in the Pacific and Caribbean regions. How successful was Progressivism as a reform