Clayton Antitrust Act (1914)

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (15 U.S.C. §§ 12–27)

2) Why It Was Done
The Clayton Act was enacted to strengthen and clarify antitrust laws after weaknesses in the Sherman Act became evident. It specifically addressed price discrimination, exclusive dealings, mergers, and interlocking directorates.

3) Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights
The Sherman Antitrust Act (1890) prohibited monopolization but lacked detail. Courts often interpreted it narrowly. The Clayton Act provided more explicit rules and added teeth to federal antitrust enforcement.