Muckraker: meaning, definitions and examples
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muckraker
[ ˈmʌkˌreɪ.kər ]
journalism
A muckraker refers to a journalist or writer who investigates and exposes issues of corruption, particularly in politics and business. The term originated in the early 20th century during the Progressive Era in the United States, when journalists sought to reveal societal problems. Muckrakers played a crucial role in raising public awareness about issues such as labor exploitation, political corruption, and corporate malfeasance. Their investigative work led to significant reforms in laws and regulations.
Synonyms
exposer, investigative journalist, whistleblower
Examples of usage
- The muckraker published an article on corporate greed.
- Muckrakers helped to mobilize public opinion against monopolies.
- Her report is viewed as a classic example of muckraking journalism.
Translations
Translations of the word "muckraker" in other languages:
🇵🇹 jornalista sensacionalista
🇮🇳 ख़बर लीक करने वाला
🇩🇪 Skandaljournalist
🇮🇩 jurnalis penyelidik
🇺🇦 журналіст-розслідувач
🇵🇱 dziennikarz śledczy
🇯🇵 スキャンダルジャーナリスト
🇫🇷 journaliste d'investigation
🇪🇸 periodista de investigación
🇹🇷 açıklayıcı gazeteci
🇰🇷 스캔들 기자
🇸🇦 صحفي تحقيق
🇨🇿 novinář odhalující skandály
🇸🇰 novinár vyšetrujúci
🇨🇳 揭露丑闻的记者
🇸🇮 raziskovalni novinar
🇮🇸 heimildarmaður
🇰🇿 тергеуші журналист
🇬🇪 გამოკვლევითი ჟურნალისტი
🇦🇿 tədqiqatçı jurnalist
🇲🇽 periodista de investigación
Etymology
The word 'muckraker' was coined by President Theodore Roosevelt in a speech in 1906. He used the term to describe journalists who, while seeking out dirt and uncovering scandal, often focused too much on the negative aspects of society. The term is derived from the concept of a 'muck rake', a tool used for digging up refuse or muck. Roosevelt, while criticizing the sensationalism of these journalists, acknowledged their role in bringing to light important issues of the time. Muckrakers played an essential role in journalism, with notable figures like Ida B. Wells and Upton Sinclair leading the charge. Their work catalyzed many Progressive reforms aimed at addressing the societal injustices of the early 20th century, and today the legacy of muckraking is evident in the ongoing tradition of investigative journalism.