The Photographs of Jacob Riis: History in Relation to Truth

Authors

Lauren Jensen, Illinois Wesleyan University

Abstract

This article discusses the photographs and writing of Jacob Riis, who was instrumental in informing middle and upperclass people in the 1870's about the poverty and conditions in the slums. It suggests that Riis may have staged some of his photographs, and that he was not without bias in his reporting, but that his pictures and writing did help in charging the social reform movements.

Recommended Citation

Jensen, Lauren (2004) "The Photographs of Jacob Riis: History in Relation to Truth," Constructing the Past: Vol. 5: Iss. 1, Article 6.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.iwu.edu/constructing/vol5/iss1/6