The Jungle
Unabridged Large Print Edition
by Upton Sinclair
In 1905, the socialist weekly journal “Appeal to Reason” sent muckraker author Upton Sinclair undercover to investigate conditions in the Chicago stockyards. The result of his seven-week investigation was “The Jungle”, first published in serial form by Appeal to Reason in 1905 and then as a book in 1906.
The story follows the fortunes of Jurgis Rudkus, a Lithuanian immigrant who arrives in Chicago’s stockyards seeking the American Dream, his teenaged wife, and their extended family. He soon discovers a ruthless system that degrades and impoverishes him and ultimately destroys his family. Sinclair portrays their mistreatment by Rudkus’ employers and the wealthier elements of society. The meatpacking industry, where he finds employment, subjects workers to harsh conditions, lack of social support, and hopelessness. Sinclair’s depiction contrasts the working-class poverty with the deeply rooted corruption of those in power. Continue reading “The Jungle [Large Print]”