Why did railroad leaders consolidate their lines in the 1880s?

(t point)
© to reduce competition and increase efficiency
O to keep from becoming "too big too quickly"
• to ensure vertical integration
• to increase rapid construction of railroad lines

The correct answer is - to reduce competition and increase efficiency. Railroad leaders consolidated their lines in the 1880s to eliminate duplicate routes, reduce competition, and improve operational efficiency. By merging smaller lines and creating larger, more connected networks, they were able to streamline operations and increase profitability.