Interstate Commerce Act

Questions for Further Study

• 1. The Interstate Commerce Act of 1887 was the first legislative attempt to federally regulate industry in the United States. In recent years, what federal legislation has attempted to regulate U.S. business or industry? What event or events prompted the legislation? Who was responsible for its promotion? Would you consider this recent legislation a success or failure? Explain.
• 2. Often the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887 is cited as one of the first examples of Progressive Era legislation. What is meant by that statement? Identify and explain other examples of Progressive Era legislation and cite their commonalities. For insight, see the entries on the Progressive Party Platform and Robert La Follette’s Platform of the Conference for Progressive Political Action.
• 3. Some early proponents of the Interstate Commerce Act argued that the federal government should not have the power to regulate or override state laws or states' rights. Can you think of a similar argument used today? Explain.
• 4. By the end of the nineteenth century the railroad industry was one of the fastest-growing and most powerful industries in the United States, and it was much criticized for its monopolistic policies and corruption. What growing American industry today is under similar attack? What legislation might be needed to curb its power? Imagine you are a U.S. senator. Draft a bill, with at least four parts, that would attempt to regulate the industry you have identified.
• 5. Lobbyists advocate for or against proposed congressional legislation. Identify at least two groups in America today that have strong lobbying power. What motivates them? What types off legislation do they favor and what legislation do they oppose?