Trustbusting
Trusts were large corporations that had a monopoly over a particular industry. Roosevelt believed that trusts were harmful to consumers because they could charge high prices and stifle competition. He therefore worked to break up trusts, or divide them into smaller companies. Some of the trusts that Roosevelt targeted included Standard Oil, Northern Securities, and U.S. Steel.
Consumer Protection
Roosevelt also worked to protect consumers from unsafe and fraudulent products. He established the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, which required food and drug manufacturers to label their products honestly. He also created the Meat Inspection Act of 1906, which required meatpacking plants to adhere to sanitary standards.
Labor Market Regulation
Roosevelt also worked to improve the working conditions of American workers. He established the National Labor Relations Board in 1909, which was tasked with investigating complaints of unfair labor practices. He also supported the passage of the Clayton Antitrust Act of 1914, which prohibited price fixing and other unfair business practices.
The Square Deal was a major part of Roosevelt's progressive agenda. It was a comprehensive set of policies that aimed to improve the lives of all Americans, and it had a significant impact on American society.