The Clayton Antitrust Act is a U.S. law enacted in 1914 to promote fair competition and prevent monopolies. It builds on the earlier Sherman Antitrust Act by addressing specific practices that could harm competition, such as price discrimination, exclusive dealings, and mergers that may substantially lessen competition. This act also established the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which is responsible for enforcing antitrust laws and protecting consumers. By targeting unfair business practices, the Clayton Antitrust Act aims to ensure a competitive marketplace, benefiting both consumers and businesses alike.