35. The Grange movement among farmers in the late 1800s focused on which of the following?
Answer: C
Organizing cooperative efforts against abuses by railroads
The Grange movement among farmers in the late 1800s focused on organizing cooperative efforts to combat the abuses they faced from railroads. This included addressing unfair pricing practices and advocating for regulations to protect farmers' interests.
A) Encouraging rural electrification in the South and Midwest
This option is incorrect as the Grange movement primarily focused on issues directly related to agriculture and economic exploitation by railroads, rather than on promoting rural electrification, which became a significant concern later in the 20th century.
B) Combating the boll weevil infestation on cotton plantations
While the boll weevil did significantly impact agriculture, particularly in the Southern cotton industry, the Grange movement was not specifically aimed at combating this pest. Their efforts were more centered around collective action against the railroad monopolies.
C) Organizing cooperative efforts against abuses by railroads
This option is correct as the Grange movement was instrumental in bringing farmers together to form cooperatives that challenged the monopolistic practices of railroads, advocating for fair treatment and pricing for transporting their goods.
D) Advocating tariffs on imported food
This option is incorrect as the Grange movement did not primarily focus on advocating for tariffs. Instead, their main concern was to address the economic injustices faced by farmers due to the monopolistic practices of railroads.
E) Conserving the soil in midwestern states
Although soil conservation is an important agricultural issue, it was not the primary focus of the Grange movement. Their main agenda revolved around economic issues related to transportation and market access rather than conservation efforts.
Conclusion
The Grange movement's emphasis on organizing cooperative efforts against the abuses by railroads highlights its role in advocating for farmers' rights and fair practices in the late 1800s. All other options either misrepresent the movement's core objectives or address issues that were not central to its mission, making Option C the definitive correct choice.