What purpose did anti-trust laws serve during the Progressive Era?

Anti-trust laws were designed to limit the power of monopolies and big businesses, promoting fair competition in the marketplace. During the Progressive Era, an important movement aimed at addressing the issues created by industrialization and corporate power, these laws were crucial in curbing corporate greed and preventing unfair practices that stifled competition.

The era was marked by the rise of large corporations that often abused their power, leading to the formation of monopolies which could dictate prices and control entire industries without regard for consumers or smaller competitors. Anti-trust laws, such as the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 and the Clayton Antitrust Act of 1914, sought to dismantle these monopolies and ensure that no single entity could dominate a market.

By enforcing these laws, the government aimed to promote a level playing field for businesses, protect consumers' interests, and foster innovation and fair pricing. This emphasis on reducing the influence of large corporations and maintaining competition was a fundamental goal of the Progressive movement, making anti-trust legislation a vital tool in achieving these objectives.