Here is the dramatic exposé of the Chicago meat-packing industry at the turn of the century that prompted the investigation by Theodore Roosevelt that culminated in the pure-food legislation of 1906.

The Jungle is the story of Jurgis Rudkus, a Slav immigrant, who marries frail Ona Lukoszaite and seeks security and happiness as a workman in the Chicago stockyards. Once there, he is abused by foremen, his meager savings filched by real estate sharks, and at every turn, he is plagued by the misfortunes arising from poverty, poor working conditions, and disease. Finally, in accordance with Sinclair's own creed, Rudkus turns to socialism as his way out.