 The role of government also grew during the early 20th century . In the rural areas , most people obtained food and manufactured goods from neighbors and other people they knew personally . As industry and commerce grew , goods such as food , materials , and medicines were no longer made by neighbors , but by large companies . In response , citizens called on their government for consumer protection , inspection of goods , and regulation of public utilities . The growth of the automobile spurred calls to develop roads and to enforce traffic laws . The state officially started its trunk highway system in 1920 , with the passage of the Babcock Amendment that established 70 Constitutional Routes around the state . New regulation was necessary for banking and insurance . The safety of industrial workers and miners became an increasing concern , and brought about the workers ' compensation system . Since government was getting more complex , citizens demanded more of a role in their government , and became more politically active . 
