A press agent in the mid-1800s would most likely use which of the following tactics?

A) reach out to company stakeholders
B) write opinion pieces for local newspapers
C) exaggerate the benefits of a product
D) tailor product messages to target audiences

During the mid-1800s, press agents were known for using exaggerated claims to promote products or events. This tactic, known as "hype," was a common way to grab the attention of the public and generate interest in a product or event. While other tactics like tailoring messages to specific audiences or writing opinion pieces were used during this time, exaggeration was the most prevalent.