Muckraker: meaning, definitions and examples
📰
muckraker
[ˈmʌkˌreɪ.kər ]
Definition
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.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'muckraker' was first used during the Progressive Era in the early 20th century to describe journalists who uncovered corruption.
- The name comes from a passage in John Bunyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress’ where a character is so busy raking muck that he ignores the treasure above.
Literature
- Prominent muckrakers include Upton Sinclair, whose novel 'The Jungle' revealed the horrors of the meatpacking industry.
- Ida B. Wells was a significant muckraker who exposed the injustices of lynching and advocated for civil rights in America.
Pop Culture
- Muckraking has been popularized in films and documentaries, portraying the fight for justice through investigative journalism.
- Shows like 'Spotlight' and 'The Insider' showcase how muckrakers bring hidden truths to light.
Political Impact
- Muckrakers were instrumental in advancing social reform, pushing for changes in laws related to labor, health, and safety.
- Their work often led to public outrage that resulted in significant political action, such as antitrust laws.
Modern Day
- The essence of muckraking continues today in investigative journalism, where reporters uncover scandals in various sectors.
- With the rise of the internet, muckrakers now utilize social media to expose truths, reaching a wider audience faster.
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