Question

Why did railroad leaders consolidate their lines in the 1880s?

(1 point)
Responses

to reduce competition and increase efficiency
to reduce competition and increase efficiency

to keep from becoming “too big too quickly”
to keep from becoming “too big too quickly”

to ensure vertical integration
to ensure vertical integration

to increase rapid construction of railroad lines
to increase rapid construction of railroad lines

Answer 1

The correct answer is "to reduce competition and increase efficiency." This consolidation of railroad lines in the 1880s was driven by the desire to eliminate competition among railroad companies and create larger, more efficient networks. By joining forces, railroad leaders hoped to increase their control over routes, eliminate duplicate tracks, and streamline operations. This consolidation also allowed them to exert more control over pricing and maximize profits.