What is the main purpose of the Sherman Antitrust Act?

The Sherman Antitrust Act was enacted to prohibit actions that restrain trade, which is essential for maintaining a competitive marketplace. This federal legislation aims to prevent monopolistic behaviors and anti-competitive practices that can harm consumers and businesses by limiting competition. By prohibiting such restraints, the Act seeks to ensure fair competition, promote innovation, and protect consumer choice. This focus on maintaining a level playing field is foundational to antitrust law and plays a crucial role in economic health, encouraging an environment where businesses can operate freely without unfair advantages being held by any single entity. Therefore, recognizing the role of the Sherman Antitrust Act in upholding and encouraging competition directly aligns with its primary goal to prohibit actions that would unfairly limit trade opportunities.