Question

in the gilded age, how did monopolies affect many small businesses?
monopolies provided customers for small businesses.
monopolies helped small businesses grow.
monopolies had no effect on small businesses.
monopolies forced small businesses to shut down.

Explanation:

Monopolies, by definition, have significant market power. They can set prices, control supply, and use various tactics (like predatory pricing) that small businesses, with limited resources, can't compete against. This often leads to small businesses being unable to sustain operations.

Answer:

Monopolies forced small businesses to shut down.