DBQ: The Federal Government and Laissez-Faire, 1865-1900

The period of American history from 1865 to 1900 consisted of much controversy concerning economic control. Individual enterprises fought diligently to dominate economic affairs but the government was obligated to intervene when unjust activity was apparent. It was unanimously believed, among businessmen, that the government should have very little say in economic issues, the basis for Laissez-Faire. This policy invited the rights of the public consumer to be violated. As a result of the unjust treatment by …

…fought diligently to dominate economic affairs but the government was obligated to intervene when unjust activity was apparent. The Laissez-Faire attitude was quite popular during this time. However, problems arose when it was in affect. The government instituted the Interstate Commerce Act and the Sherman Antitrust Act to maintain a more balanced economy and make life easier for the poor. The Federal government only intervened in the economy when it was necessary to do so.