Final answer:
Initially, tort claims against large corporations were largely D)unsuccessful, facing judicial skepticism and corporate legal defenses. Success in such legal battles became more common with the Progressive Era's reforms, including the strengthening of the Sherman Anti-Trust Act.
Step-by-step explanation:
When tort claims were initially brought against large business firms, they were typically unsuccessful. The courts often viewed these cases with skepticism, and the political and economic power of large corporations made it difficult for individuals or small businesses to prevail. It was not until the Progressive Era and the strengthening of regulatory legislation like the Sherman Anti-Trust Act that more successful actions against big business began to emerge. This era saw significant legal and social reforms which aimed at curtailing the power of monopolies and ensuring fair competition in the marketplace.