Multiple Choice Question

Using Sources 3 and 4, which statement best describes a major economic problem faced by farmers in the West that led to the populist movement?

A. 

Farmers faced hardships because of high shipping costs for their crops.

B. 

Farmers lost income because of unfair taxes imposed on their crops.

C. 

Farmers feared that the availability of free silver would hurt the economy.

D. 

Farmers worried that railroad strikes would prevent access to new markets.

1 answer

Based on the context of the Populist movement and the common economic problems faced by farmers during that time, the statement that best describes a major economic problem is:

A. Farmers faced hardships because of high shipping costs for their crops.

High shipping costs were a significant concern for farmers, particularly in the West, as they often had to rely on railroads to transport their goods to market. This, coupled with the monopolistic practices of railroad companies, contributed to the economic difficulties that led to the emergence of the Populist movement.