Details

Jacob August Riis (1849-1914) was a pioneering Danish-American social reformer, muckraker journalist, and social documentary photographer. Riis is best known for his dedication to advocating for the impoverished in New York City slums during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His most influential work, 'How the Other Half Lives' (1890), shed light on the squalid conditions in the tenements and was instrumental in prompting urban reforms. Riis's literary style combines a journalistic eye with a profound sense of humanity and moral urgency, providing a powerful voice for the underprivileged and helping to effect societal change. In 'Hero Tales of the Far North', Riis presents stories that celebrate the valor and fortitude of individuals from Scandinavian history, reflecting his own heritage. While less famous than his social justice writings, this work illustrates Riis's narrative flair and his appreciation for cultural history and heritage. Riis's contributions to investigative journalism and photography have cemented his place in American letters, not only for his storytelling ability but also for his passionate advocacy that rose from the written page to provoke real-world reform.