Question

question 4 of 10

which progressive activists work exposed unfair business practices and helped inspire the sherman antitrust act?

a. jane addams
b. ida tarbell
c. lincoln steffens
d. upton sinclair

Explanation:

Identify the core question

The question asks for the Progressive activist whose work exposed unfair business practices and helped inspire the Sherman Antitrust Act.

Analyze the historical context

During the Progressive Era Reform movement, investigative journalists known as muckrakers exposed corruption and monopolies. Ida Tarbell wrote a highly influential exposé titled The History of the Standard Oil Company (published in 1904), which detailed the ruthless business practices of John D. Rockefeller's trust. Her work was instrumental in raising public awareness and driving antitrust legislation and enforcement, leading to the breakup of Standard Oil under the Sherman Antitrust Act.

Evaluate the given options

• A. Jane Addams: Known for founding Hull House and leading the settlement house movement, focusing on social reform and helping immigrants.
• B. Ida Tarbell: Her investigative journalism directly targeted the Standard Oil monopoly, exposing unfair business practices and fueling antitrust reform.
• C. Lincoln Steffens: Famous for exposing political corruption in municipal governments in The Shame of the Cities.
• D. Upton Sinclair: Famous for writing The Jungle, which exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry and led to the Pure Food and Drug Act.

Select the correct option

Ida Tarbell is the activist whose work directly targeted corporate monopolies and unfair business practices, aligning perfectly with the prompt.

Answer:

• (A) Jane Addams
• (B) Ida Tarbell (Correct answer)
• (C) Lincoln Steffens
• (D) Upton Sinclair