How did monopolies contribute to the economic challenges that farmers faced in the United States in the late 19th century? A-Independent farmers were forced to sell their farms when they could not compete with the output of large, commercial farms. B- Farmers were dependent on industries in which high prices were set by companies that had no competition. C-Monopolies were exempt from legislation that was intended to regulate business practices. D- Farmers' options for purchasing seed, livestock, and farm equipment were severely limited when smaller companies were absorbed by indust.