The Tariff Act of 1890, also known as the McKinley Tariff, was a significant piece of legislation in the United States that raised tariffs on imported goods. Its primary goal was to protect American industries by making foreign products more expensive, thereby encouraging consumers to buy domestic products. The act increased tariffs on a wide range of goods, including agricultural products and manufactured items. The act faced criticism for raising prices for consumers and was seen as favoring big businesses over the average citizen. It contributed to political shifts, leading to the Democratic Party gaining strength in the following elections, as many voters opposed the high tariffs imposed by the act.