In the late 1800s, the term robber baron was used to describe some owners of big businesses primarily because they

eliminated competition using ruthless methods

Explanation:

Robber Baron was a term used to refer to dishonest businessmen of the 1800s. These businessmen made great fortunes through the exploitation of their employees and consumers, paying very low wages and charging abusive prices for their products. In addition, these entrepreneurs with the main objective of creating a monopoly adopted illegal and dishonest practices to reduce and even eliminate competition and ensure that their company had the biggest profit. The term refers to a baron (someone rich and influential) and someone who goes beyond the law in favor of their own interests, a thief, a robber.

no questions on whether they are allowed that right

answer; nearly half;