Which 1890 act aimed to combat monopolies in the U.S.?

Study for the AMSCO AP United States History Exam covering Period 6. Prepare with multiple-choice questions, hints, and explanations. Get ready for your APUSH exam!

The Sherman Antitrust Act, passed in 1890, was a landmark piece of legislation aimed at curbing the power of monopolies and trusts that were seen as restraining trade and commerce. The act specifically made it illegal to restrain trade or commerce among the several states or with foreign nations, thereby targeting oppressive business practices. It was the first federal legislation to ban monopolistic practices, setting a precedent for future antitrust laws.

The significance of the Sherman Antitrust Act lies in its intention to maintain competition in the marketplace and prevent unfair practices that stifle innovation and consumer choice. This act served as a foundation for later legislation aimed at promoting fair competition and addressing the economic imbalances created by large corporations.

In contrast, the Clayton Antitrust Act, while also focused on antitrust measures, was enacted in 1914 and built upon the principles established in the Sherman Act by providing more specific provisions against certain practices that the earlier act did not fully address. The Federal Trade Commission Act, established in 1914, created the Federal Trade Commission to enforce antitrust laws and protect consumers from unfair business practices. The Robinson-Patman Act, passed in 1936, specifically aimed to address price discrimination and its impact on competition. Thus, while

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