The Jungle

The Jungle reveals the brutal realities of Chicago's stockyards and the plight of laborers under capitalism, highlighting themes of exploitation and "wage slavery." Upon its 1906 release, it became an instant bestseller, prompting significant reforms in workers' rights and the meatpacking industry. Drawing inspiration from Dickens's Hard Times, this novel stands as a pivotal work in American literature, addressing fundamental societal issues and leaving a lasting impact on both literature and labor regulations.