Question

Think about Standard Oil's business practices. In three to four sentences, explain why there was such a strong negative feeling toward the Standard Oil monopoly.

Answer 1

Sample Response: Standard Oil was taking advantage of incentives that were being given to growing businesses at the time. The company was also ensuring that competition could not continue by lowering prices so much that other producers could not continue to make a profit. With little competition remaining in the market, consumers would be forced to pay the prices set by Standard Oil.

Which issues are included in your response? Check all that apply.

rising prices for consumers
undercutting prices
manipulating local markets and stations
secret deals with train companies