Jacob Riis
Definition
Jacob Riis was a Danish-American social reformer, journalist and social documentary photographer known for his dedication to using his photographic skills to help the impoverished in New York City during the late 19th century.
Analogy
Imagine Jacob Riis as an early version of a documentary filmmaker or photojournalist who uses their camera not just for art but as a tool for change - kind of like if you used your Instagram stories not just for selfies but to spotlight important issues around you.
Related terms
Tenement: A type of building shared by multiple dwellings, typically in the form of apartments that are rented to tenants. These were common in urban areas during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Social Reform: This is a kind of movement aiming to make gradual change, or change in certain aspects of society, rather than rapid or fundamental changes.
Urbanization: The process by which towns and cities are formed and become larger as more people begin living and working in central areas.
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