Final answer:
In the late 1800s, U.S. farmers believed that federal regulation of the railroad industry could solve their economic problems, leading to the creation of the Interstate Commerce Commission to ensure fairer shipping rates and practices. Hence, the correct answer is option (A).
Step-by-step explanation:
During the late 1800s, many United States farmers believed their economic problems would be solved if the federal government would regulate the railroad industry. As farmers grappled with the challenges of overproduction, fluctuating agricultural prices, and high tariffs, they also dealt with inconsistent and inflated rates for shipping their goods via the railroads.
Freight rate manipulation, land sales prioritizing businesses over agricultural needs, and the perceived unfairness in differential charging practices by the railroads mobilized farmers to organize and seek legislative relief. The creation of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) in 1887 through the Interstate Commerce Act was a manifestation of their desires, establishing federal regulation over railroad practices and seeking to introduce a fairer and more equitable system that would help ease farmers' economic burdens.