Why were the reforms of the early 1900s, such as the recall, referendum, and initiative provisions, called “progressive”?

It was called the progressive because these activities were centered on the interest of the people. The emphasis was on social activism to political reform to root corruption in government as well as promoting direct democracy. It also encouraged people to actively participate in matters that would concern them.  Activities such as referendums, recalls, provisions, initiatives ensure that the people have a say in what goes on in government.  It started in the 1900s with Presidents such as Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson and William Howard Taft.