MUCKRAKERS
The muckrakers, who were an important segment of the Progressive Movement, embodied the systematic approach of collecting scientific data and expert testimony and then sharing it with the public via the print media. By practicing the art of investigative journalism, the muckrakers used the information they gathered from slums and sweatshops to publish articles that made it very apparent that a significant portion of Americans were not living the American Dream. Thus, by using mass-circulation of print media, these authors were able to inform the public of the unseemly elements in various parts of the society.
Although meant as a slight, Theodore Roosevelt borrowed a phrase from the popular novel Pilgrims Progress by John Bunyan, which had been issued in 1678. TR believed that these journalists were making a good living by simply focusing on the filth (thus, muck) in the society rather than the numerous positives. Also, in many of the works, TR believed the journalists were simply blowing the whistle on negatives without issuing any solutions. Thus, the cause was the formation of the Progressive movement and the various methods they used in their systematic approach. The name, which TR used with disdain, was shortly worn with pride by those that practiced investigative journalism. This form of media has continued to this day with shows like 60 Minutes, Anderson Cooper 360, Outside the Lines, and the Sports Reporters.
What was the impact of muckrakers? As already mentioned, the muckrakers still exist to this day. The works of Ida Tarbell (Standard Oil), Upton Sinclair (The Jungle), and Lincoln Steffens (political corruption) led to various levels of legislation to protect the interests of the masses.
Although meant as a slight, Theodore Roosevelt borrowed a phrase from the popular novel Pilgrims Progress by John Bunyan, which had been issued in 1678. TR believed that these journalists were making a good living by simply focusing on the filth (thus, muck) in the society rather than the numerous positives. Also, in many of the works, TR believed the journalists were simply blowing the whistle on negatives without issuing any solutions. Thus, the cause was the formation of the Progressive movement and the various methods they used in their systematic approach. The name, which TR used with disdain, was shortly worn with pride by those that practiced investigative journalism. This form of media has continued to this day with shows like 60 Minutes, Anderson Cooper 360, Outside the Lines, and the Sports Reporters.
What was the impact of muckrakers? As already mentioned, the muckrakers still exist to this day. The works of Ida Tarbell (Standard Oil), Upton Sinclair (The Jungle), and Lincoln Steffens (political corruption) led to various levels of legislation to protect the interests of the masses.