- 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) Lincoln Steffens
B) Upton Sinclair
C) Jane Addams
D) Ida Tarbell
- 2. In what year was 'The Shame of the Cities' published?
A) 1910
B) 1899
C) 1901
D) 1904
- 3. What genre does 'The Shame of the Cities' belong to?
A) Muckraking journalism
B) Poetry
C) Fiction
D) Historical biography
- 4. What political topic does Steffens primarily focus on?
A) National elections
B) Labor strikes
C) Municipal corruption
D) State government reform
- 5. How does Steffens view the relationship between voters and their leaders?
A) Leaders are always ethical
B) Voters are complicit in corruption
C) Voters have no power
D) Leaders are solely to blame
- 6. What role does bribery play in Steffens' analysis?
A) Ignored topic
B) Central issue in corruption
C) Only a historical artifact
D) Minor concern
- 7. Which city is associated with the phrase 'Tammany Hall'?
A) Boston
B) San Francisco
C) New York City
D) Detroit
- 8. Which method did Steffens use to gather information for his book?
A) Public forums
B) Investigative reporting
C) Interviews with citizens only
D) Surveys
- 9. Who does Steffens blame for systemic corruption?
A) Foreign influences
B) Only the politicians
C) The system itself and the citizens
D) Big businesses
- 10. How did Steffens contribute to the Progressive Era?
A) By advocating for imperialism.
B) By ignoring urban issues.
C) By exposing corruption and injustices.
D) By promoting traditional values.
- 11. What was a significant result of Steffens' findings?
A) Worsening public apathy.
B) Decreased voter turnout.
C) Diminished media influence.
D) Increased activism and reform efforts.
- 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 should remain neutral.
C) It is a tool of the elite.
D) It can expose and challenge power.
- 14. What type of reforms does Steffens advocate for?
A) Social reform
B) Cultural reform
C) Political reform
D) Economic reform
|