How did Rockefeller set out acquire control of the oil industry?

John D. Rockefeller aimed to dominate the oil industry through a strategy of horizontal integration, where he bought out competitors to consolidate market power. He founded Standard Oil in 1870, employing aggressive tactics such as negotiating favorable rates with railroads and undercutting prices to drive rivals out of business. Additionally, he utilized trusts to manage the many companies under his control, effectively creating a monopoly. This approach allowed him to control a significant portion of the U.S. oil market by the late 19th century.