These trust agreements would result in a monopoly. To combat this sort of business behavior, Congress passed antitrust legislation.
Clayton Antitrust Act
The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 was one of the first pieces of legislation aimed at curbing monopolistic practices and promoting fair competition in the marketplace. It prohibited contracts, combinations, or conspiracies that restrained trade and made attempts to monopolize illegal. Subsequent legislation, such as the Clayton Antitrust Act of 1914 and the Federal Trade Commission Act of 1914, provided more specific regulations and enforcement mechanisms to address anticompetitive practices, complementing the Sherman Act's broader prohibitions. Together, these laws aimed to protect consumers and promote a competitive economy.
One significant reform introduced by Progressives to combat issues arising from industrialized capitalism was the establishment of antitrust laws. These laws aimed to break up monopolies and promote competition, addressing the concentration of economic power that often led to exploitation of workers and consumers. The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 and subsequent legislation helped regulate corporate behavior and foster a fairer marketplace. This reform sought to ensure that economic growth benefited a broader segment of society rather than a select few industrialists.
The original antitrust legislation in the U.S., particularly the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890, was largely driven by the rise of monopolies and trusts during the Gilded Age. As powerful corporations like Standard Oil and U.S. Steel dominated markets, they stifled competition, manipulated prices, and exploited workers. Public outcry against these practices, combined with economic instability and the growing influence of populist movements, prompted lawmakers to intervene and establish regulations aimed at promoting fair competition and protecting consumers.
Major legislation in this realm includes the Sherman Act of the 1890s, the Clayton Act of 1914, and the Cellar-Kefauver Act of 1950. The Robinson-Patman Act prohibits manufacturers from discriminating against small retailers in favor of large chains.
Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890
In the United States, the main purpose of antitrust legislation is to promote competition in business.
Sherman Antitrust Act.
The 1914 Clayton Antitrust Act Labor excluded unions and agricultural cooperatives from antitrust laws
Clayton Antitrust Act.
Clayton Antitrust Act
James H. Sneed has written: 'Antitrust' -- subject(s): Antitrust law, Law and legislation, Medical care
Weakened antitrust legislation
Sherman antitrust act
Sherman Antitrust Act
To restore competition between similar businesses.
John H. Shenefield has written: 'The antitrust laws' -- subject(s): Antitrust law 'Current merger enforcement' -- subject(s): Consolidation and merger of corporations, Law and legislation, Antitrust law