Assignment: The Jungle

One of the most famous books in American history was published during the Progressive Era and played a huge role in Progressive Ideology; Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle. It’s famous for its graphic description and exposure of what goes on in the Chicago meat-packing industry. After reading the excerpt, answer the following:

  • Sinclair once told an interviewer “I aimed at the public’s heart and by accident hit it in the stomach.” What exactly does he mean? What was he trying to accomplish with the book and how did he expect The Jungle to accomplish it?

Be sure to use specific examples and quotes from the document in support of your answer.