18. Know the purpose of Sinclairs writing “The Jungle” and what act it helped to pass. Read Lesson 3 and Topic 11.3: The Rise of Progressivism in American History textbook. Read The Muckrakers.
"The Jungle" was written by Upton Sinclair with the purpose of exposing the working and living conditions of immigrants in the meatpacking industry in the early 20th century. The novel aimed to shed light on the unsanitary practices, exploitation, and corruption prevalent in the industry. Sinclair's intention was to generate public outrage and awareness about these issues in order to bring about social and political reforms.
"The Jungle" played a significant role in the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act (1906) and the Meat Inspection Act (1906). These acts were a direct response to the outcry caused by Sinclair's novel and aimed to regulate the food and drug industry, ensuring the safety and quality of products consumed by the public. The Meat Inspection Act specifically mandated federal inspection of meat and set sanitary standards for meatpacking plants.
By revealing the appalling conditions in the meatpacking industry, Sinclair's "The Jungle" contributed to the rise of progressivism in America, which sought to address social and political issues through government intervention and reform.