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

Question

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

Answer 1

The correct response is: to reduce competition and increase efficiency.

During the 1880s, railroad leaders consolidated their lines primarily to reduce competition among themselves, which helped to stabilize prices and improve efficiency in their operations. This consolidation also allowed them to streamline services and reduce costs.