Comparing The Jungle By Thomas Nast And The Progressivism Era

It is essential to challenge authority in order to improve societal practices and end unfair actions. A group of people in the 1900s-1920s known as muckrakers exemplify the importance of questioning standards. These muckrakers were politically active figures in America who publically challenged authority and thereby contributed to American progress.

One such muckraker named Thomas Nast was pivotal to ending graft. The early 1900s were known as the Progressivism Era because many social reform projects were underway then. In New York City, these projects included improving living conditions for the poor, developing public libraries and other public service programs. However poor oversight left political figures such as Boss Tweed completely in charge of these projects. Operating out of Tammany Hall, he embezzled millions of dollars in tax payer money with no consequence. Even well

into the depression, he continued to make money through vote buying. Boss Tweed’s corrupt underground business gave power to the corrupt, stile money from the poor and tainted the reputation of America. Yet many did not question it because Boss Tweed rewarded those who kept their mouth shut. It was Thomas Nast, who at risk to his own safety, exposed Boss Tweed and the corruption of Tammany Hall in his book, “The Shame of the Cities”. The public awareness lead to people clamoring for federal intervention to end the graft and corruption taking place. Without Thomas Nast questioning the actions of Boss Tweed, his underground business would have continued its appalling actions.
Upton Sinclair was another muckraker who revealed the horrible state of meat production and labor management in America.

Spending two years as a laborer in the meat packing industry, Upton Sinclair saw firsthand the treatment of labor by management, and the state of sanitation for the meat before and after it was packed. He exposed the truth behind was Americans were eating in his novel, “The Jungle”. Jurgis, the main character who is a Lithuanian immigrant, seeks out the American dream and is enthralled by the power and efficiency of the meat packing industry. Only later, as his life deteriorates out of his control, does he realize the horrible conditions that laborers endured in the industry. He is disgusted by the brutal treatment of the animals that end up being disease ridden meat sold to the American public. The effect of the novel was immediate. Major packing industries nearly went out of business and new laws were enacted to improve the state of labor and meat packing. These acts included the Keating-Owens Act and Pure Food and Drug Act, which was the precursor to the current

FDA.
These muckrakers were only few of the many that were essential to improving American way of life politically, socially and economically. Rarely will those in authority ever reveal their own wrong-doings or take the pain to change them, especially if it costs them money. It is up to individuals to challenge authority and improve society for themselves.