What character trait is highlighted about Henry Frick in his role with Carnegie?

• A. He is cooperative and friendly
• B. He is innovative and forward-thinking
• C. He is ruthless and tough-minded
• D. He is passive and uninvolved

Answer: (C)

Henry Frick is characterized as ruthless and tough-minded in his role with Carnegie, particularly during critical moments in their business dealings. His approach to business often involved hardline tactics, especially when it came to labor relations. The steel industry was rife with labor issues during this time, and Frick was known for his aggressive stance against unions, exemplified by his actions during the Homestead Strike. This event highlighted his willingness to use force to suppress worker dissent and protect company interests, showcasing his tough-minded nature.

Frick's demeanor starkly contrasts with traits like cooperation and friendliness, which were not his defining characteristics in the often cutthroat world of industrial capitalism. While innovation can be associated with business success, Frick’s legacy is more closely aligned with his merciless approach to maintaining control and ensuring profitability, reinforcing the notion that he was primarily driven by a desire to dominate the market rather than to foster collaborative partnerships. Thus, the answer underscores the more aggressive and calculative aspects of Frick's personality in the context of his business relationship with Carnegie.