The Autobiography of Lincoln Steffens

The Autobiography of Lincoln Steffens was first published in 1931 as a comprehensive account of the author's life as a prominent American journalist and muckraker. Steffens gained national notoriety during the Progressive Era for his investigative journalism, particularly his series exposing municipal corruption in major American cities, which was later compiled into his seminal work, The Shame of the Cities. This autobiography serves as both a personal memoir and a critical examination of the political and social machinery of early twentieth-century America.

Written during the later stages of his life, the book reflects Steffens's transition from a reform-minded journalist to a figure deeply skeptical of traditional political institutions. The design and narrative structure were intended to provide a candid, retrospective view of his encounters with influential world leaders and his evolving philosophical outlook on power and social change. Upon its release, it was widely praised for its depth and intellectual honesty, solidifying Steffens's legacy as one of the most significant voices in American muckraking literature.