1. The plight of the working class: He wrote extensively about the conditions faced by laborers, particularly in the mining and factory industries. His investigations revealed exploitative practices, unsafe working conditions, and the devastating impact of industrialization on workers' lives.
2. The corruption of big business: Baker exposed the corrupt practices of powerful corporations and their influence over government policies. He criticized the monopolistic tendencies of large businesses and their disregard for the welfare of workers and consumers.
3. The social and political landscape of rural America: He was fascinated by the lives of rural communities and their changing social structures. He explored the impact of modernization, urbanization, and technological advancements on rural life.
4. The need for social reform: Through his writings, Baker advocated for social justice, labor rights, and the creation of a more equitable society. He believed in the power of education, collective action, and government intervention to address social problems.
Some of his notable works that exposed these issues include:
* Following the Color Line: A groundbreaking study on race relations in the United States, revealing the deep-seated discrimination and prejudice faced by African Americans.
* The Right to Work: A powerful argument for workers' rights and the need for labor unions.
* Adventures in Contentment: A series of essays about the beauty and simplicity of rural life, but also highlighting the challenges faced by farmers and rural communities.
In summary, Ray Stannard Baker's work exposed the harsh realities of industrial capitalism, the exploitation of workers, the corruption of powerful institutions, and the need for social reform. He used his writing to advocate for a more just and equitable society.