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Upton Sinclair's Social Reform And Its Impact

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Social Reform and Its Impact
The early 20th century in the United States brought numerous changes to the lives of Americans. It was a period of change and reform that occurred with the assistance of socialists or progressives. One of the components that led to a major reform in America was through a novel. The novel transformed the public's view on industries and opened the eyes of President Roosevelt and the government. Upton Sinclair published The Jungle in 1906 and it was a catalyst for the reform of the country's food safety laws and standards. Sinclair was placed under muckraker through this novel because he displayed the corrupt sides of businesses to the public.
The book portrayed the conditions of the meatpacking industry in Chicago through the eyes of Jurgis, an immigrant. Sinclair, through Jurgis, noted the shocking and disgusting conditions and methods utilized in the industry. Animals were slaughtered in a frightening and cruel way while workers transferred diseases and germs to those animals. Employees were ill and …show more content…
The meatpacking industries were not the only businesses affected by Sinclair. Instead, all industries that processed food gained the public and government's attention. It is possible for the public to assume that all industries functioned in the same way. Through Sinclair, however, the public, as well as the government, put their attention to reforming industries. His actions could have been unintentional, however, it still affected all businesses. Americans were shocked and furious with meatpacking industries and wanted to improve the conditions. The workers’ hands touched the meat, spreading bacteria to the consumers. Needless to say, consumers were the real victims. The Jungle allows readers to learn what happens to industries as a result of being neglected and unconcerned. The Jungle played a major role in setting the guidelines for preserving the nation’s

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