During the era known as the "Gilded Age," rapid economic growth was accompanied by ___________ rising inequality, labor strikes, and political corruption.
4
writingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
"issues," these included:
B
"issues," these included
C
"issues"; these included
D
"issues," these included
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. A semicolon separates independent clauses ("...accompanied by 'issues'" and "these included...").
Choice A is incorrect because a colon is not used to separate independent clauses when the second starts with "these included." Choice B is incorrect because it creates a run-on. Choice D is incorrect because it creates a comma splice.