What was the primary purpose of the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890?

• A. Curb monopolies and restraints of trade
• B. Regulate federal income tax
• C. Promote workers' right to unionize
• D. Regulate food labeling

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that the Sherman Antitrust Act was designed to curb monopolies and restraints of trade. In the late 1800s, big corporations formed trusts that controlled whole industries, reduced competition, raised prices, and squeezed out rivals. Congress answered by making it illegal for any contract, combination, or conspiracy that restrains trade or commerce, giving the federal government power to break up or block these practices. This focus on preventing anti-competitive behavior and dissolving monopolies is why it’s the best description of the act’s purpose.

It’s not about regulating federal income tax, protecting workers’ rights to unionize, or regulating food labeling, so those options don’t capture the act’s intended goal.