Assess the validity of this statement: The progressive era was a failure

In actuality there are two distinct Progressive Eras, one before 1901 during the Gilded Age, and one after, starting with the Presidency of Teddy Roosevelt.

The pre 1901 Progressive Era was quite unsuccessful, made up of suffragists, the temperance movement, novelists, socialists and others active against the abuses of the time.  They were largely ignored and had very limited success.

After 1901, Progressives enjoyed quick successes under Teddy Roosevelt with the Meat Inspection Act, Pure Food and Drug Act, conservationism with National Parks, and labor reform under the Square Deal.  There was also fairly aggressive breakups of large trusts during that time.  By Wilson's presidency, progressive amendments were adopted to the Constitution.

So it really depends which Era you're referring to.