Muckrakers

Definition

Muckrakers were journalists during the Progressive Era (1890s-1920s) who exposed social injustices, political corruption, and corporate wrongdoing through investigative journalism.

Related terms

Progressive Era: A period of widespread social activism and political reform across the United States that spanned from the 1890s to 1920s.

Yellow Journalism: A style of newspaper reporting that emphasizes sensationalism over facts.

Investigative Journalism: A form of journalism where reporters deeply investigate a single topic such as serious crimes, political corruption or corporate wrongdoing.