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

Question

(1 point) choose one dundun

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

Answer 1

The correct choice is:

to reduce competition and increase efficiency

Railroad leaders consolidated their lines primarily to eliminate competition among themselves, which allowed for greater control over rates and services, ultimately leading to increased efficiency and profitability.