Final answer:
Cornelius Vanderbilt, an American industrialist, met with business leaders to secure contracts ensuring his trains remained full. He used strategic negotiations and partnerships to control a vast network of rail transportation during the 19th century.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question refers to the historical figure Cornelius Vanderbilt, an American industrialist and philanthropist who built his wealth in railroads and shipping. During his time, Vanderbilt looked for ways to ensure that his trains were always carrying full loads to maximize efficiency and profits. To keep his trains full of cargo, Vanderbilt would often meet with business leaders and industrialists to secure contracts and establish mutually beneficial arrangements that would guarantee a steady flow of goods for transport on his railways.
Commodore Vanderbilt, as he was commonly known, understood the importance of these business relationships in the burgeoning industrial economy of the United States during the 19th century. His strategies often involved aggressive tactics and negotiations, sometimes leading to partnerships or even taking over competing lines to increase his control over the rail transport industry.