Jacob Riis

Real World Example

Jacob Riis was a Danish-American journalist and photographer who documented the harsh living conditions of the poor in New York City during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He published a book called "How the Other Half Lives," which exposed the unhealthy and unsafe conditions of tenements, prompting public outrage and calls for reform. Riis's work was significant during the Progressive Era because it helped spur changes in housing laws and improved living conditions for many urban residents. Today, his legacy continues to inspire journalists and activists who use media to advocate for social change and justice. For example, modern photojournalists often capture images of poverty and inequality to raise awareness and inspire policy changes, much like Riis did over a century ago.