The padrone performed an important function by

A) maintaining the authority of the Catholic Church.
B) encouraging Italians to abandon the traditions of their homeland.
C) countering the influence of the Mafia.
D) acting as a broker between employers and unskilled workers.

Padrone

An employment broker or agent, often used historically to refer to one who exploited Italian and other immigrants in the United States by controlling their employment and living conditions.

Unskilled Workers

Individuals employed in a job that requires minimal training or education, often performing manual or menial tasks.