The Shame Of The Cities by Lincoln Steffens
- 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) 1904
C) 1899
D) 1901
- 3. What genre does 'The Shame of the Cities' belong to?
A) Muckraking journalism
B) Historical biography
C) Poetry
D) Fiction
- 4. What political topic does Steffens primarily focus on?
A) State government reform
B) Municipal corruption
C) Labor strikes
D) National elections
- 5. How does Steffens view the relationship between voters and their leaders?
A) Voters have no power
B) Voters are complicit in corruption
C) Leaders are always ethical
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) Detroit
B) Boston
C) New York City
D) San Francisco
- 8. Which method did Steffens use to gather information for his book?
A) Surveys
B) Public forums
C) Investigative reporting
D) Interviews with citizens only
- 9. Who does Steffens blame for systemic corruption?
A) Only the politicians
B) The system itself and the citizens
C) Big businesses
D) Foreign influences
- 10. How did Steffens contribute to the Progressive Era?
A) By ignoring urban issues.
B) By promoting traditional values.
C) By advocating for imperialism.
D) By exposing corruption and injustices.
- 11. What was a significant result of Steffens' findings?
A) Decreased voter turnout.
B) Worsening public apathy.
C) Diminished media influence.
D) Increased activism and reform efforts.
- 12. In Steffens' view, what is essential for true reform?
A) Isolation from other cities.
B) Public engagement and awareness.
C) Economic growth.
D) Strict punishment for politicians.
- 13. What does Steffens imply about the power of the press?
A) It is a tool of the elite.
B) It is generally ineffective.
C) It should remain neutral.
D) It can expose and challenge power.
- 14. What type of reforms does Steffens advocate for?
A) Political reform
B) Economic reform
C) Cultural reform
D) Social reform
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