AP US Historyeasymcq1 pt

Social Darwinism, as invoked by Gilded Age business leaders, held that

A.the government should redistribute wealth to the working class
B.all social classes should pool their resources equally
C.competition in the marketplace rewarded the fittest, and government should not interfere
D.charity toward the poor was a religious duty

Explanation

Core Concept

Thinkers such as Herbert Spencer applied 'survival of the fittest' to society, arguing that the successful deserved their wealth. This justified laissez-faire policies and opposition to aid for the poor.

Correct Answer

Ccompetition in the marketplace rewarded the fittest, and government should not interfere

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