The Jungle by Upton Sinclair The quintessential muckraking novel, Upton Sinclair's The Jungle changed the course of history. With its gruesomely detailed picture of the meat-packing industry, the book prompted the immediate passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act, caused a drop in American's consumption of meat, and launched Sinclair's long career as a champion of the working class. The book introduces us to Jurgis Rudkus, a Lithuanian peasant who brings his family to America in search of a better life. Patron Membership Required You must be a Patron member to access this content.Already a member? Log in here