The federal government allowed monopolies to operate freely during the gilded age because of the belief that monopolies would treat their laborers well. monopolies would keep competition alive. monopolies were the economy grow. monopolies were the best way to make a profit.

C.) Monopolies were helping the economy grow

C) Monopolies were helping the economy grow.

Explanation:

The first statement is incorrect, as workers during the Gilded Age organized numerous strikes and protests against monopolies like Standard Oil Company (owned by John D Rockefeller).  

The second statement is incorrect as monopolies do not increase competition. Rather, they decrease competition by buying other companies and businesses. This decreases the amount of business within their market.

The fourth statement is not the right answer, as the profit made by monopolies had nothing to do with the profit made by the federal government.

This shows why only letter C can be correct.

b.

jim crow laws were enacted in northern states.