Progressive Movement Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Ida Tarbell is best known for her investigative journalism that exposed the monopolistic practices of the Standard Oil Company and its founder, John D. Rockefeller. Through her detailed articles, especially her series published in McClure's Magazine, she highlighted how Standard Oil used ruthless tactics to eliminate competition and maintain its dominance in the oil industry. This work not only brought significant public attention to corporate corruption and unethical business practices but also contributed to the growing calls for government regulation of businesses and anti-trust reforms.

Her advocacy primarily focused on the need for accountability and transparency in corporate governance, making the case for reforms that would curb the power of monopolies. As a result, her writings played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influenced legislative efforts aimed at regulating big businesses. Her work remains a central piece of the Progressive Movement's emphasis on addressing the excesses of industrial capitalism.