When Riis published her book in 1890. The census bureau ranked America has highest population in the globe. During this century, the insurance companies were limited and only found in single cities. Most underwriters, therefore, were required to ensure properties before acquiring them.
However, the insurance companies increased with time, expanded covering broad areas, grew the industries, and helped many people in diverse ways.
The public health was also not in a good state because there were constant concerns about sanitation and other diseases that had engulfed the countries. However, Jacob Riis was at the forefront of protecting the public.