How did the jungle help progressives achieve their goals?

Answer 1

The jungle, particularly Upton Sinclair's novel "The Jungle," played a crucial role in advancing progressive goals by exposing the appalling conditions in the meatpacking industry. The vivid descriptions of unsanitary practices and worker exploitation galvanized public outrage and prompted calls for reform. This outrage led to significant regulatory changes, including the Meat Inspection Act and the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, aligning with the progressives' aims of improving labor conditions and consumer protections. Ultimately, the novel helped mobilize support for broader social reforms and highlighted the need for government intervention in industrial practices.