Final Answer
Jacob Riis's pictures had a profound impact on the wealthy in the US at that time by exposing the harsh realities of urban poverty and living conditions.
Step-by-step explanation
Jacob Riis, a photojournalist in the late 19th century, captured the squalid conditions of tenement housing and the struggles of impoverished communities in New York City. His images, such as those in his influential work "How the Other Half Lives," provided a stark and visceral portrayal of the appalling living conditions endured by the urban poor.
For the wealthy in the US, these pictures served as a powerful wake-up call, forcing them to confront the stark contrast between their privileged lives and the dire circumstances faced by many in their own cities.
Riis's photographs acted as a catalyst for social reform, prompting discussions about the need for improved housing, sanitation, and workers' rights. The images humanized the struggles of the less fortunate, challenging stereotypes and fostering empathy among the affluent.
As a result, some of the wealthier individuals began to engage in philanthropy and support social initiatives aimed at addressing the issues highlighted by Riis. In essence, his pictures played a pivotal role in shaping public perception and influencing the wealthy to take a more active role in addressing the social and economic disparities of the time.