Who were the muckrakers?

Muckrakers were journalists and writers during the Progressive Era in the early 20th century who sought to expose social ills, corruption, and injustices within society, particularly in politics and business. Their investigative work played a significant role in raising public awareness about issues such as monopolistic practices, unsafe working conditions, and the exploitation of the poor. Notable muckrakers included Upton Sinclair, who highlighted the unsanitary conditions of the meatpacking industry in "The Jungle," and Ida Tarbell, whose writings on Standard Oil exposed corporate greed and manipulation.

The investigative nature of muckraking journalism led to significant reforms, as public outrage over the issues they uncovered often resulted in policy changes and regulatory measures. Their work represents a crucial aspect of American journalism and social progress, as it helped to hold powerful entities accountable and push for greater transparency and ethical standards.