After reading the tay chapter on religion and reform, what seem to be the major obstacles to achieving that long sought “perfection” during this time period?

The reasons were mostly:

Explanation:

By the 19th Century,  United States had considerably changed from the time of it's Independence. The territory had grown, the country had industrialized and there was a wealthy elite living in metropolitan cities

However, most of the population was still poor and there was rampant government corruption. bribery was normal and the rich had made sure they were in close collaboration with government officials.

In all this, vices such as alcoholism, prostitution and theft had increased.

A reform movement, mostly lead by religious leaders was able to bring 'God' back to the people.

However, it largely failed to bring back the 'Perfection' of early America.

This is mostly because the country had changed with so many new immigrants and changing demographics that the younger generation could not relate to these ideals.

Also, there was a lack of support from the government including rules and regulations that wold have nurtured these ideas.

The reasons were as follow:

1. Individualism stressed personality.

2. Government corruption.

3. Diplomacy

Explanation:

It changed the country due to the immigration of the younger generation. The corrupted government didn't help the poor people and it leads to the worst situation of the society. Lack of interest by the government leaders in the economy started vanishing the idea of a perfect society. The societies were run by the religious leaders, who were not supportive and imposing their laws on the people.