Ida Tarbell was an American journalist and a pioneer of investigative reporting in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She is best known for her detailed exposé on the Standard Oil Company, which revealed the company's unethical practices and monopolistic behavior. Her work contributed to public awareness and eventually led to the breakup of the company. Born on November 5, 1857, in Erie, Pennsylvania, Tarbell was one of the first women to gain prominence in journalism. She was also a prominent member of the muckraker movement, which aimed to expose corruption and social injustices in American society. Her writings have had a lasting impact on journalism and public policy.