What was the primary focus of consolidation in mining?

The primary focus of consolidation in mining was to merge small mining operations into larger corporations. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the mining industry underwent significant changes due to the high capital requirements and risks associated with mining operations. As a result, it became increasingly common for smaller, individual mining ventures to combine resources in order to achieve economies of scale, reduce competition, and improve operational efficiency.

Larger corporations could leverage their size to access better technology, secure financing, and streamline production processes, which ultimately led to greater profitability and stability in the market. This trend of consolidation also facilitated investments in infrastructure and contributed to the overall growth of the mining industry, reflecting a strategic shift towards larger corporate structures rather than remaining fragmented with many small operations.

The other options do not capture this focus accurately; promoting individual companies does not align with the trend of consolidation, preventing monopolies was not the goal as consolidation often led to monopolistic practices, and diversifying mining practices is more about changes in mining techniques rather than the consolidation of operations.