Progressive Movement Practice Exam

Jacob Riis and Upton Sinclair are known for their focus on what issue?

1. Social conditions

2. Civil rights of African Americans

3. Interests of American farmers

4. Goal of women's suffrage

The correct answer is: Social conditions

Jacob Riis and Upton Sinclair are prominent figures in the Progressive Era, known for their in-depth exploration of social conditions faced by the American public, particularly the poor and working-class communities. Jacob Riis, a journalist and social reformer, raised awareness about the dire living conditions in urban tenements through his work "How the Other Half Lives." His investigative efforts helped to shed light on issues such as poverty, crime, and inadequate housing in New York City. Upton Sinclair, a novelist and social activist, is best known for his book "The Jungle," which exposed the horrific conditions in the meatpacking industry. Through visceral descriptions and personal stories, Sinclair aimed to reveal not only the dangers faced by workers but also the unsanitary practices in food production, which had broader implications for public health. Both Riis and Sinclair utilized their writings as a means to advocate for social reform and drive public policy changes aimed at improving the lives of marginalized groups. Their focus on social conditions, therefore, aligns with the broader goals of the Progressive Movement, which sought to address various social injustices and improve living and working conditions for all Americans.