Progressive antitrust movement

The Progressive antitrust movement, active mainly in the early 20th century, aimed to promote fair competition by limiting the power of large corporations or monopolies. It sought to prevent dominant firms from controlling markets, fixing prices, or stifling innovation. Through government actions like breaking up big companies (e.g., Standard Oil, U.S. Steel), Progressives aimed to protect consumers and small businesses. The movement emphasized that a competitive market fosters better quality, lower prices, and innovation, viewing big corporations’ unchecked power as a threat to economic fairness and democracy.