Introduction
In Frank Norris’ novel “The Octopus,” the author exposed several corrupt business practices prevalent in the late 19th century. One of the most significant corrupt practices highlighted in the book was the manipulation of railroad rates by the powerful Southern Pacific Railroad Company. This article will delve into the details of this corrupt business practice and its impact on the fictional town of Bonneville.
The Manipulation of Railroad Rates
Background: The Southern Pacific Railroad Company, a dominant force in the transportation industry during that era, held a virtual monopoly over rail services in California. This monopoly allowed them to dictate the rates charged to transport goods, giving them immense power over the local economy.
Unfair Rates: The corrupt practice exposed by Frank Norris in “The Octopus” was the discriminatory and unfair rates imposed by the Southern Pacific Railroad Company. The company would charge exorbitant rates for transporting goods from smaller towns like Bonneville, while offering significantly lower rates to larger cities and favored customers. This practice severely disadvantaged smaller businesses and stifled their growth, while benefiting larger corporations and individuals with close ties to the railroad company.
Impact on Bonneville: In the novel, the fictional town of Bonneville, heavily dependent on agriculture, suffered greatly due to the unfair rates imposed by the Southern Pacific Railroad. Farmers and small business owners in Bonneville were unable to compete with larger companies in neighboring cities, as the high transportation costs made their products less competitive in the market. This led to a decline in the town’s economy, widespread poverty, and a sense of helplessness among its residents.
Resistance and Consequences
Farmers’ Alliance: In “The Octopus,” Frank Norris portrayed the farmers’ resistance against the corrupt railroad practices through the Farmers’ Alliance. This organization aimed to unite farmers across California to fight against the unfair rates and seek justice. The fictional character of Magnus Derrick, a farmer and leader of the Farmers’ Alliance, becomes the voice of the resistance against the Southern Pacific Railroad.
Violent Confrontations: As the farmers’ frustration grew, Norris depicted several violent confrontations between the farmers and the railroad company’s agents. These clashes highlight the desperation and anger felt by the farmers, who saw no other way to fight against the powerful corporation that controlled their livelihoods.
Legal Battles: In addition to the physical resistance, “The Octopus” also explores the legal battles fought by the farmers to challenge the corrupt practices of the Southern Pacific Railroad. The novel portrays the struggles faced by the farmers in navigating the legal system, which was often biased in favor of the powerful railroad company.
Conclusion
Frank Norris’ “The Octopus” sheds light on the corrupt business practice of manipulating railroad rates by the Southern Pacific Railroad Company. Through vivid storytelling, Norris exposes the devastating impact of this practice on the fictional town of Bonneville and its residents. The novel highlights the resistance, both physical and legal, faced by the farmers in their fight against the powerful corporation. “The Octopus” serves as a powerful critique of the corrupt practices prevalent in the late 19th century and raises awareness about the need for fair and equitable business practices.
References
– Norris, Frank. “The Octopus.” Penguin Classics, 2006.
– “Southern Pacific Railroad.” Encyclopedia.com.
– “The Octopus (novel).” Wikipedia.
