Muckrakers and Their Impact on Progressive Reform

Muckraking, a term coined by Teddy Roosevelt, refers to investigative journalism aimed at exposing social injustices. Despite Roosevelt's progressive stance, he criticized the style of muckraking. Key figures include Ida Tarbell, who exposed Standard Oil's monopolistic practices; Lincoln Steffens, who highlighted political corruption in American cities; and Upton Sinclair, whose book 'The Jungle' revealed the appalling conditions in the meatpacking industry. These works played a crucial role in the progressive movement, leading to reforms and legislation to address these issues.

What term did Teddy Roosevelt use to describe investigative journalists, and what was his opinion on their style?

• Muckraking; he criticized their style

• Muckraking; he admired their style

• Yellow journalism; he supported their style

• Yellow journalism; he disliked their style

What was the focus of Ida Tarbell's book about Standard Oil?

• The environmental impact of oil drilling

• The personal life of John D. Rockefeller

• The technological innovations in oil refining

• The business practices of Standard Oil

How did Ida Tarbell describe John D. Rockefeller's business tactics?

• As fair and competitive

• As ruthless and monopolistic

• As innovative and groundbreaking

• As environmentally friendly

What was the main subject of Lincoln Steffens' book 'Shame of the Cities'?

• The rise of industrialization

• Political corruption in American cities

• The development of rural areas

• The history of American education

What did Lincoln Steffens identify as a major problem in American cities?

• Lack of infrastructure

• Political machines controlling cities

• High unemployment rates

• Poor educational systems

What industry did Upton Sinclair expose in his book, and what was the public's main concern?

• The steel industry; pollution

• The textile industry; labor conditions

• The meatpacking industry; food safety

• The oil industry; environmental damage

What was the impact of Upton Sinclair's book on the public?

• Heightened concern about food safety

• Greater interest in environmental issues

• Increased awareness of political corruption

• More support for labor unions

What was a significant outcome of muckraking journalism in the early 20th century?

• The rise of new political parties

• The decline of the progressive movement

• The end of industrialization

• The implementation of progressive reforms

Which of the following best describes the role of muckraking in the progressive era?

• It was a minor influence on public opinion

• It was primarily concerned with foreign policy

• It played a key role in exposing social injustices

• It focused mainly on entertainment

How did muckraking contribute to legislative changes during the progressive era?

• By promoting laissez-faire economics

• By highlighting issues that led to new laws

• By focusing on international affairs

• By supporting political machines