Why do you think some people called Rockefeller a Robber Baron?

i really don't know why.....???????

i find him more of a an industrialist

please help!!!

didn't someone ask this ? before

Yes. I answered this last night.

http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1351040154

that's VANDERBILT

i'm talking about ROCKEFELLER

people make mistakes its alright

Some people referred to Rockefeller as a Robber Baron because of his aggressive and often controversial business practices. To understand why people had this perception, we first need to look at the context of the time period in which he operated.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States experienced a phenomenon known as the Gilded Age, characterized by rapid industrialization, wealth concentration, and fierce competition. Industrialists like Rockefeller were at the forefront of this era, amassing tremendous wealth and power.

Here are some reasons why people considered Rockefeller a Robber Baron:

1. Monopoly Formation: Rockefeller was the co-founder of Standard Oil, which grew to dominate the oil industry. Through a series of aggressive tactics, such as controlling pipeline access, buying out competitors, and undercutting prices, Standard Oil achieved a virtual monopoly, ultimately controlling around 90% of the oil market. This level of monopoly power sparked concerns about unfair competition and price manipulation.

2. Predatory Pricing: Standard Oil would sometimes sell its products below cost, driving competitors out of business. Once competitors were eliminated, Standard Oil would raise prices, limiting consumer choices and potentially exploiting its market dominance.

3. Labor Exploitation: To maintain control over production costs, Standard Oil often sought to suppress wages and working conditions. Critics argued that Rockefeller prioritized profits over the well-being of his workers.

4. Lack of Philanthropy Early On: Initially, Rockefeller didn't engage in substantial philanthropic activities. This lack of giving back to society contrasted with his immense wealth, leading some to question his moral compass and label him as a ruthless capitalist.

It's important to note that the term "Robber Baron" is not universally agreed upon by historians and scholars. Some argue that Rockefeller's actions were simply a product of the era and the competitive nature of the time. However, the term was popularized due to public sentiment against wealthy industrialists whose actions were perceived as exploitative.

To determine if someone is a Robber Baron, it requires a critical examination of their business practices, their impact on society, and the prevailing ethical norms of their time. Evaluating different perspectives and considering historical context will help provide a more comprehensive understanding of individuals like Rockefeller.