The United States of America has gone through many eras in its young, two-century history, driven by innovation and progress through the various individuals and groups that have contributed with long lasting effects. It is important to note, however, the conflicts that came along with it. Throughout America’s history, many people have attempted to create progress in their social, economical, and practical lives as they see fit. This sometimes led to conflicting interests, and the high-stakes nature of their pursuits caused turmoil in the form of turf wars, stemming from each side’s efforts to push for their own goals. Thomas Jefferson penned these immortal words in the Declaration of Independence: “ “We hold these truths to be self-evident, …show more content…
In particular, John D. Rockefeller, founder of the Standard Oil Company, was known for his ruthless grip on the oil industry through eliminating competition. He even made it a point to call competition “a sin” and [ANOTHER QUOTE], and followed suit with this philosophy by making deals with railroad companies for reduced prices in exchange for promised large shipments. The public outcry against Rockefeller’s practices became so widespread, [FINISH]. Separate from the ethical questions that prompted the U.S. government to break up Standard Oil into several companies, Rockefeller’s technique of acquiring smaller companies to aggressively grow his own company was “a move that pioneered modern American capitalism” according to History.com (2010). History will see Rockefeller as a complex man, known for his discipline, ruthlessness, and generosity, who created turmoil in the oil industry through his seemingly unrestrained practices in capitalism. However, it is also important to note that he also set a precedent for other companies to explore new ways to increase profit and grow and, indirectly, made sure businesses can have a fair chance to thrive in the future, through the legislation that was created in response to situations such as Standard Oil’s