MUCKRAKERS. Reform-minded journalists in the Progressive Era (1890's-1920's) who exposed established institutions/leaders as CORRUPT! What?

They also exposed INJUSTICES. They exposed the TRUTH. Relentless reliance on REALITY.

Some badmouthed them and tried to vilify them to save their own sorry corrupt a**es. Those who vilify reporters of truth are always guilty of something very ugly they do not want others to know about. So the simpleminded believe the LIARS exclusively. Odd balls all of them.