Question

what problems did social-welfare progressives attempt to reform ?

Answer 1

The main two problems that these progressives attempted to reform were corruption in government and business, as well as making sure that a large amount of public wealth did not end up in the hand of people who were already rich. 

Answer 2

I believe the answer is: They wanted to encourage the government to enact social policies to improve work on crime, illiteracy, alcohol abuse, child labor, and the health and safety of Americans

The progressive believed that these issues contribute greatly to the suffering of the poor and minorities in united States.

Because of this, they advocate for more government involvement to handle these issues. The opposition of their believed argue that the government do not have enough budget to directly help the issues.