During the late 1800s, the idea of social darwinism was used to explain the
a. success or failure of businesses
b. development of the granger movement
c. need for settlement houses
d. creation of a national parks system

The answer is A.

Explanation:

The term was coined by the British scientist and philosopher Herbert Spencer. This theory states that human life in society is governed by the same rules of selection found in nature. The social life of people is a struggle of existence determined by the "survival of the fittest." The strong grow in power and cultural influence over the weak, whose role and culture are diminished.

to extend a country’s power and influence