Final answer:
The closest answer to when the American economy nearly doubled in size from 1877 is C. 1893, although the exact doubling of size is not clearly provided within the given options. This era was highlighted by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and economic challenges like financial crises.
Step-by-step explanation:
Growth and Challenges of the American Economy
The American economy experienced unprecedented growth following the Civil War, fueled by the rise of industry and a steady influx of immigrants. Between the Civil War and 1873, America's industrial output increased by 70 percent. However, this period also saw significant economic challenges, such as financial crises and depressions, particularly between the years 1873-1878.
By 1890, the emphasis had shifted from a nation of small farmers to a more modern Capitalist system, as fewer Americans made a living from the land. The Industrial Age marked America's transformation from an agrarian to an industrial-based economy, witnessing a rapid urbanization and quadrupling of industrial workers from 1880 to 1920.
Answering the student's question directly, it is clear that the indicated period of nearly double economic growth does not match exactly with the options provided (A-D). However, considering the span of one of the depressions was from 1873-1878 and that major growth had continued until around 1873, the closest answer, although not precise, would be: C. 1893, when considering the subsequent recovery and growth that would have occurred post-depression.