Quotes by Ida Tarbell

About Ida Tarbell:


Ida Minerva Tarbell is thought to have pioneered investigative journalism. She is best known for her 1904 book, The History of the Standard Oil Company, which was listed as No. 5 in a 1999 list by New York University of the top 100 works of 20th-century American journalism. It was first serialized in McClure's Magazine from 1902 to 1904. She depicted John D. Rockefeller as crabbed, miserly, money-grabbing, and viciously effective at monopolizing the oil trade. She wrote many other notable magazine series and biographies, including several works on President Abraham Lincoln, revealing his early life.

Author Bio


  • NameIda Tarbell
  • DescriptionAmerican journalist
  • BornNovember 5, 1857
  • DiedJanuary 6, 1944
  • CountryUnited States Of America
  • ProfessionJournalist; Author
  • WorksThe History Of The Standard Oil Company
  • AwardsNational Women's Hall Of Fame