Answer:
Business monopolies.
Explanation:
In the late 19th century and early 20th, most companies were looking to form monopolies. By decreasing or nullifying the competition, the business's success was assured.
As an example, the Standard Oil Company, founded by John D. Rockefeller was one of the most powerful monopolies of its time. He was able to dictate fixed products, pay whatever wages he wanted to pay to workers, and controlled the market since his competitors weren't remotely close to his manufacturing levels.
However, it didn't lack opposition. in 1890 United States Senator John Sherman, attained the passage of the Sherman Antitrust Act in 1890, which allowed the Federal Government to break up any business who was in any way prohibiting competition. This act was widely used throughout the whole century, in the fight against monopolies.
