To what extent did America uphold its democratic ideals from 1880-1920?

In much of this time period, there will be, as the previous post, suggested a great deal of divergence in thought.  The most stunning example of America upholding its democratic ideals could be seen in the United States' entry into World War I.  President Wilson believed that the nation's participation in the war was "to make the world safe for democracy."  Wilson's address to Congress identified specific goals and ideals to which America gave its support and, thus, justifying its participation in World War I.  At the same time, one could argue that another example of American values being upheld was present in Progressivist Reforms of the late 19th century and early 20th.  The idea of power coming from "the bottom up" was of critical importance to the Progressivists, who sought change in the political orders of the day that rewarded corruption and abuses of power.  In addition, the fight for women's suffrage, articulating conceptions of freedom for African- Americans and other marginalized groups, as well as the Muckrackers' attempt expose government collusion and unsafe business practices could all be considered actions that upheld American democratic ideals.