Muckrakers Expose Problems in Society — Reading Comprehension

In the early 1900s, a group of brave writers called muckrakers helped change America. These reporters wrote about problems in factories, food, and big businesses. Their stories made many people want to fix these problems.

One famous journalist was Upton Sinclair. He visited meat factories in Chicago. He saw workers treated badly and food made in dirty places. Sinclair wrote a book called The Jungle. He said, "I aimed at the public's heart, and by accident I hit it in the stomach." His book shocked the nation. People demanded safer food and better working conditions.

Another muckraker, Ida Tarbell, wrote about the Standard Oil Company. She found out the company was unfair to smaller businesses. Her articles made people angry. They wanted new laws to stop unfair business practices.

Because of muckrakers, the government made new rules. For example, the Pure Food and Drug Act made food safer. The Meat Inspection Act required cleaner factories. These changes helped protect people and workers. Muckrakers showed that one person can make a big difference by telling the truth.

Today, reporters still uncover problems. They help make our country better, just like the muckrakers did.

Interesting Fact: President Theodore Roosevelt gave muckrakers their name after seeing how they "raked up the dirt" to help the public learn the truth.

Who wrote The Jungle?

What did Ida Tarbell write about?

What year was The Jungle published?

Why did people want new laws?

How did muckrakers help society?

What is the main effect of muckraker stories?

Muckrakers were only in Chicago.

What does 'journalist' mean?