What was one of Rodman Wanamaker's motivations for establishing the PGA?

Rodman Wanamaker's primary motivation for establishing the PGA stemmed from recognizing the increasing popularity of golf in America during the early 20th century. As more individuals became interested in the sport, there was a clear opportunity to formalize the profession of golf professionals and ensure that they had a structured organization representing their interests and fostering the growth of the game. By capitalizing on this growing popularity, Wanamaker aimed to promote the golf industry as a whole, including the interests of golf course professionals and players. This strategic move was essential in creating standards, improving professional opportunities, and elevating the status of golf amidst its burgeoning appeal among the public.

Other options introduce scenarios that, while plausible, do not accurately reflect Wanamaker's primary motivation in founding the PGA. The focus was not specifically on creating a competitive league, developing training programs nationwide, or simply promoting golf as a social event, though these elements may have evolved as the PGA developed over time. The emphasis on leveraging the sport's popularity at that time was central to Wanamaker's vision.