The Jungle, Muckrakers, and Teddy Roosevelt

Two lessons comprise "The Jungle, Muckrakers, and Teddy Roosevelt" unit module that asks middle schoolers to consider whether investigative journalism is beneficial or detrimental. The lessons focus on the evidence Upton Sinclair used to support his claims in The Jungle and claims made in early 20th-century newspapers that led to the passage of Progress Era legislation. Young historians also examine Roosevelt's "The Man with the Muck-Rake," speech in which he supported investigative journalism and warned against baseless attacks.