By 1873 Texas had 1,068 miles of railroad of which 750 miles were owned by four companies. The railroads had obtained great power and were accused of running the state
through bribery, hidden monopolies and controls, and favoritism to officials while profits,
such as they were, went to outside capitalists.
- Railroad Commission of Texas
Which of the following best supports and explains the passage above?
Railroads had great power because they were essential to life and work in Texas.
Railroads in Texas grew large because the state was so large.
People who lived in areas not served by railroads were better off than those who lived in railroad
towns.
Most Texans regretted the arrival of railroads in their state.