The industry began to outgrow its original home. First Kansas City, then South Omaha, then other points were seized by Chicago firms for branch establishments. Gradually, out of the ruck of many competitors emerged four men whose commanding intellects and natural ability domi nated the situation. These were P. D. Armour, Gustavus F. Swift, George H. Hammond, and Nelson Morris. Each was at the head of a great firm; all were bitter and unresting competitors whose combats overshadowed lesser rivalries.