Final answer:
The correct answer is option b) Alcohol led to absenteeism and accidents; Reformers promoted temperance, established laws, and education.
Step-by-step explanation:
The consumption of alcohol by workers led to negative outcomes such as absenteeism, workplace accidents, and a general decline in worker productivity. In response, reformers and their allies fought this societal problem by advocating for temperance, pushing for restrictive laws, and focusing on the importance of public education on the matter.
The temperance movement grew out of the wider social reform movements of the 19th century, which sought to deal with the various social issues spurred by urbanization and immigration. These efforts were often led by women, particularly the Women's Christian Temperance Union, and sometimes led to significant legislative victories, such as Maine's total ban on alcohol between 1851-1856.
The temperance movement's success was variable; while it gained momentum and even led to dry towns and counties, it faced opposition and challenges that diluted its impact. However, over time, the advocacy for temperance did lead to changes such as reducing Saturday work hours in hopes of mitigating Sunday alcohol consumption, and eventually contributed to the establishment of the weekend. The movement culminated in a nationwide change with the passage of the 18th amendment, establishing Prohibition.