Progressive Movement Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

Antitrust laws were implemented during the Progressive Era with the primary goal of curbing the power of monopolies and fostering competition in the marketplace. Monopolies, which dominate entire industries, often lead to higher prices and lower quality for consumers due to the lack of competition. The introduction of antitrust laws, such as the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890, was a critical legislative response aimed at preventing anti-competitive practices. These laws provided the government with the ability to break up large corporations that restrain trade, thereby promoting a more competitive economic environment.

In contrast, labor reforms primarily focused on improving working conditions, wages, and rights for workers rather than addressing monopolistic practices directly. Social Security was established to provide financial support for the elderly and disabled, which is separate from the concerns of economic competition and corporate control. Consumer protection laws were aimed at safeguarding consumers from unfair business practices but did not directly target monopolies. Thus, antitrust laws stand out as the specific reform effort designed to eliminate monopolies and stimulate competition in the market.