The deplorable working conditions that many American laborers were forced to endure led to the rise of muckrakers, such as Upton Sinclair, in the early twentieth century. Which of the following BEST describes the types of individuals to whom the term "muckraker" refers?

Question

A.
Radical nativists whose writing sought to convince the government to regulate immigration.

B.
Playwrights who turned the social struggles of American laborers into popular stage productions.

C.
Economic writers who charted the rise of American industry and the social changes it brought about.

D.
Investigative journalists whose work sought to bring about social reform and relief for the lower classes.

Answer 1

The BEST description of the types of individuals to whom the term "muckraker" refers is:

D. Investigative journalists whose work sought to bring about social reform and relief for the lower classes.

Muckrakers were known for their investigative journalism that exposed social injustices, corrupt practices, and poor working conditions, ultimately aiming to prompt reforms in society.