Who financed the American Social Hygiene Association?

• A. John D. Rockefeller
• B. Andrew Carnegie
• C. J. P. Morgan
• D. Cornelius Vanderbilt

Answer: (A)

Philanthropic influence on Progressive Era public health reform explains this question. John D. Rockefeller was a major sponsor of social-reform initiatives aimed at improving public health and controlling vice. He and his network funded organizations promoting “social hygiene”—efforts to prevent prostitution and sexually transmitted diseases and to educate the public about sexual health. The American Social Hygiene Association drew support from Rockefeller's philanthropic circle, making him the financier behind its work.

Other industrialists were known for different focuses: Carnegie largely funded libraries and education, Morgan supported finance and industry-related projects, and Vanderbilt backed transportation and railroad ventures. Their philanthropy did not center on the ASHA’s anti-vice and public-health mandate, which is why they aren’t the best fit for who financed it.