What is the history of antitrust law in the US?

The history of antitrust law in the US dates back to the late 19th century. The federal government began its antitrust efforts in 1890 with the passage of the Sherman Antitrust Act, which outlawed certain anti-competitive practices and monopolies. The law was extended and strengthened in 1914 with the passage of the Clayton Antitrust Act, which further restricted monopolistic activities. In the 1940s and 1950s, the US began to take a more aggressive approach to antitrust enforcement, resulting in the breakup of many large companies. This included the breakup of Standard Oil in 1911 and the breakup of AT&T in 1984. The US Congress passed the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act in 1976, which extended the scope of antitrust enforcement and strengthened the penalties for violations. Congress also passed the American Antitrust Institute Act in 1982, which established the American Antitrust Institute, a research and advocacy organization. In District of Columbia, antitrust law is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC is tasked with enforcing antitrust policy and conducting investigations into violations of antitrust law. It also works to educate consumers, business owners, and other stakeholders about the importance of competition. The FTC enforces antitrust law through civil and criminal proceedings, seeking injunctions and penalties when necessary. It can also pursue civil damages and criminal penalties when necessary. The FTC has become an important actor in protecting competition and preventing monopolies in DC.

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What is the history of antitrust law in the US?

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