Who were the "Muckrakers"?

The term "Muckrakers" refers to journalists in the early 20th century who sought to expose social issues and political corruption. This movement emerged during the Progressive Era, when there was a growing public demand for transparency and integrity in government and business practices. Muckrakers played a crucial role in uncovering scandals, corporate greed, and social injustices, making significant contributions to the reform movements of their time.

Prominent Muckrakers included figures like Upton Sinclair, whose book "The Jungle" revealed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry, and Ida Tarbell, who investigated the monopolistic practices of Standard Oil. Their work sparked public outrage and ultimately led to reforms, such as regulations in food safety and labor laws, as citizens became more aware of the corrupt practices happening in their society.

While the other choices mention politicians, activists, and public figures advocating for various causes, they do not encapsulate the primary role of Muckrakers, which was specifically focused on investigative journalism aimed at exposing corruption and injustices.