Final answer:
The period between 1883 and 1925 is often considered the golden age of newspapers for several reasons, with option: a. They essentially held a monopoly over mass communication and were the only outlet for national political news.
Step-by-step explanation:
The period between 1883 and 1925 is often considered the golden age of newspapers for several reasons, with option: a. They essentially held a monopoly over mass communication and were the only outlet for national political news. During this time, newspapers played a central role in mass communication, holding a virtual monopoly on disseminating news to the public. They were a primary source of national political information, and their influence was significant. However, it's important to note that this era also saw the emergence of sensational journalism and increased competition among newspapers, contributing to a dynamic media landscape. While newspapers were influential, claiming they could "virtually choose the President" oversimplifies the complex factors that determine election outcomes.