Jacob A. (Jacob August) Riis
The Peril and the Preservation of the Home
Being the William L. Bull Lectures for the Year 1903
"The Peril and the Preservation of the Home" by Jacob A. Riis is a series of lectures on social issues written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the vital role of the American home within society and advocates for its preservation amidst growing urbanization and social challenges. Riis discusses the implications of failing to tend to the home ideal, linking it to the broader health of the Republic and the moral fabric of its citizens. The opening of the book sets the stage for Riis’ argument by addressing the historic neglect of home and housing conditions, particularly in major cities. He reflects on the implications of these conditions, such as the rise of crime and moral decay linked to the degradation of family life. Riis emphasizes that the solution lies in restoring the sanctity and functionality of the home, which he believes is crucial for cultivating responsible citizenship and addressing larger societal issues. He draws upon personal experiences and observations, painting a vivid picture of the struggles faced by families in tenements and the urgent need for reform and belief in a greater cause, thus framing the lectures as both a call to action and a moral imperative.