The relationship between businesses and the government in the late 1880s was a very good one. The prevailing philosophy during this time period was one of laissez-faire. This philosophy was one that supported very little government involvement in and regulation of the economy. As a result, businesses were free to do almost anything they wanted to do.
There were very few laws passed to protect workers. The government generally supported the business owners when there were strikes against them. As a result, many strikes were unsuccessful. Businesses were also able to grow in size. They began to establish monopolies. This reduced competition and allowed businesses to make more money by charging higher prices. Some states passed laws that allowed businesses to form corporations. Even when laws were passed to control business activities, the laws were worded so unclearly that the courts wouldn’t act on them. The Sherman Antitrust Act was an example of such a law. The courts also sided with the business owners when there were disputes with the workers.
The relationship between the government and businesses was a very good, close relationship in the late 1800s.
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