- 1. The Shame of the Cities, authored by Lincoln Steffens and published in 1904, is a seminal work of investigative journalism that seeks to illuminate the pervasive corruption and inefficiency plaguing American urban governance at the turn of the 20th century. In this groundbreaking collection of essays, Steffens travels to various cities such as St. Louis, Chicago, and Philadelphia, meticulously documenting the intricate web of political graft, social injustice, and moral decay that characterize municipal administrations. Through vivid narratives and firsthand accounts, he exposes the collusion between business interests and corrupt politicians, revealing how the very fabric of democracy is undermined by self-serving motives and a lack of accountability. Steffens's poignant observations not only critique the societal norms of his time but also echo a universal call for reform and civic responsibility, igniting a national discourse on the need for ethical governance and the empowerment of the citizenry. His work serves as a historical lens, providing insight into the struggles of urban America and the seeds of the Progressive Era, while challenging readers to confront the moral implications of complacency in the face of systemic corruption.
Who wrote 'The Shame of the Cities'?
A) Ida Tarbell
B) Jane Addams
C) Upton Sinclair
D) Lincoln Steffens
- 2. In what year was 'The Shame of the Cities' published?
A) 1901
B) 1899
C) 1910
D) 1904
- 3. What genre does 'The Shame of the Cities' belong to?
A) Historical biography
B) Fiction
C) Poetry
D) Muckraking journalism
- 4. What political topic does Steffens primarily focus on?
A) State government reform
B) Labor strikes
C) Municipal corruption
D) National elections
- 5. How does Steffens view the relationship between voters and their leaders?
A) Leaders are always ethical
B) Voters are complicit in corruption
C) Leaders are solely to blame
D) Voters have no power
- 6. What role does bribery play in Steffens' analysis?
A) Only a historical artifact
B) Ignored topic
C) Minor concern
D) Central issue in corruption
- 7. Which city is associated with the phrase 'Tammany Hall'?
A) New York City
B) San Francisco
C) Boston
D) Detroit
- 8. Which method did Steffens use to gather information for his book?
A) Investigative reporting
B) Surveys
C) Public forums
D) Interviews with citizens only
- 9. Who does Steffens blame for systemic corruption?
A) The system itself and the citizens
B) Only the politicians
C) Foreign influences
D) Big businesses
- 10. How did Steffens contribute to the Progressive Era?
A) By promoting traditional values.
B) By ignoring urban issues.
C) By exposing corruption and injustices.
D) By advocating for imperialism.
- 11. What was a significant result of Steffens' findings?
A) Worsening public apathy.
B) Decreased voter turnout.
C) Increased activism and reform efforts.
D) Diminished media influence.
- 12. In Steffens' view, what is essential for true reform?
A) Public engagement and awareness.
B) Economic growth.
C) Strict punishment for politicians.
D) Isolation from other cities.
- 13. What does Steffens imply about the power of the press?
A) It is generally ineffective.
B) It is a tool of the elite.
C) It can expose and challenge power.
D) It should remain neutral.
- 14. What type of reforms does Steffens advocate for?
A) Economic reform
B) Social reform
C) Political reform
D) Cultural reform
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