Explain how President Roosevelt's "Trust-Busting" illustrates the impact of Populist activism in the gilded age.
President Roosevelt's "Trust-Busting" policy exemplifies the impact of Populist activism in the Gilded Age by demonstrating a shift towards more progressive attitudes towards the consolidation of corporate power. The Populist movement, which gained momentum in the late 19th century, was a response to the growing influence of big business and monopolies that dominated various industries.
The Populists advocated for increased governmental regulation of corporations and sought to break up the large trusts and monopolies that stifled competition and harmed small businesses and consumers. President Roosevelt, who took office in 1901, embraced some of these Populist ideals and launched a series of anti-trust lawsuits against major corporations, such as Standard Oil and US Steel, in order to promote fair competition and protect consumers.
Roosevelt's Trust-Busting efforts were a clear reflection of the influence of Populist activism in challenging the power of big business and promoting economic fairness. By taking action against monopolies and trusts, Roosevelt demonstrated a willingness to address the social and economic inequalities that had developed during the Gilded Age, highlighting the lasting impact of Populist ideas on progressive reform in the early 20th century.