Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
Public outcry against monopolistic practices by railroads
B
The desire to increase government revenue through fines
C
A push for increased tariffs on imported goods
D
Pressure from foreign governments to regulate American businesses
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
The main reason the Sherman Antitrust Act was enforced in 1890 was the growing power of large trusts that hurt competition and consumers. These trusts, such as Standard Oil, controlled entire industries and could fix prices or shut out rivals, making it hard for small businesses to survive. When people saw that a few companies were setting prices and buying out competitors, they demanded that the government step in to restore fair play. For example, Standard Oil used its monopoly to drive smaller oil producers out of business, prompting lawmakers to create the law that would break up such monopolies. The Act was thus enforced to protect the market and the public from these unfair practices.
Detailed Explanation
People were upset that railroads charged too much and stopped new lines, hurting farmers and towns. Other options are incorrect because Some think the act was written to raise money for the Treasury; Some believe the act was about raising import duties.
Key Concepts
Antitrust laws
Monopolies
Regulatory measures
Topic
Sherman Antitrust Act Enforcement
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1What was the primary effect of the Sherman Antitrust Act in the marketplace during the late 19th century?
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Practice
2
Question 2What was the primary purpose of the Sherman Antitrust Act when it was enacted?
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Practice
3
Question 3What was the primary goal of the Sherman Antitrust Act?
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Practice
4
Question 4Which scenario best illustrates the enforcement of the Sherman Antitrust Act?
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Practice
5
Question 5Which of the following actions are typically considered as enforcement measures under the Sherman Antitrust Act? (Select all that apply)
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Practice
6
Question 6What was a significant underlying cause for the initial enforcement of the Sherman Antitrust Act against labor unions instead of corporations?
mediumHistory
Practice
7
Question 7What was a key initial focus of the Sherman Antitrust Act when it was enacted in 1890?
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Practice
8
Question 8The Sherman Antitrust Act, enacted in 1890, was primarily aimed at preventing __________ that interfered with interstate trade.
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Practice
9
Question 9What was the primary intent of the Sherman Antitrust Act when it was first enacted?
easyHistory
Practice
10
Question 10What was the primary cause behind the application of the Sherman Antitrust Act against the Northern Securities railroad trust in 1904?
easyHistory
Practice
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