Final answer:
Reformers called on the government to legislate against rebates and rate discrimination in the railroad industry in the 1800s, with minimal success.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the 1800s, reformers called on the government to legislate against rebates and rate discrimination in the railroad industry, but with minimal success. The lobbying efforts of farmers' associations led to the passing of the Interstate Commerce Act in 1887, which required railroads to establish standard rates and prohibited them from offering free passes or other benefits. However, these reforms did not fully address the issue of rebates and rate discrimination.