Final answer:
In the late 19th century, monopolistic business entities that led to the creation of anticompetitive legislation were known as trusts. The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 was enacted to break up these trusts and ensure fair competition in various industries.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the late 19th century, businesses that assigned control to a single decision group and became the impetus for anticompetitive legislation were called trusts.
These large firms, often operating across multiple industries, conducted business as single entities, often reducing competition and leading to high prices and less innovation.
The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 was implemented to combat these monopolistic practices. This legislation aimed to promote fair competition and prevent the monopolization of industries.
Launching a new era of federal regulation, the Act empowered the government to dissolve trusts that engaged in anticompetitive practices.