Final answer:
The Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) regulated railroad rates and practices, ensuring fair and reasonable charges for transporting goods, which benefitted farmers by allowing them better access to markets and preventing discriminatory pricing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) was established to regulate the railroad industry and ensure fair rates, primarily to protect farmers and other shippers from discriminatory practices. By the late 19th century, railroads had become the dominant mode of transportation for goods, including agricultural products. However, farmers often faced high shipping costs and unfair treatment from railroads that took advantage of their market power. The establishment of the ICC marked a significant step in addressing these issues.
The ICC helped farmers by regulating the rates that railroads could charge for transporting goods, prohibiting rate discrimination, and requiring that rates be "reasonable and just." This meant that farmers could anticipate more consistent and fair prices for shipping their crops, ultimately aiding in the marketing of their products. The commission also ensured that railroads provided adequate services and did not engage in monopolistic practices that hurt competition and consumer interests, including those of farmers.