Trust-busting refers to government actions aimed at breaking up monopolies and promoting competition in the marketplace. This practice became prominent in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly under President Theodore Roosevelt. Trusts, which are large business entities that dominate a market, can limit consumer choices and inflate prices. The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 was one of the first laws to address these issues, allowing the government to take legal action against companies that engaged in anti-competitive practices. Trust-busting efforts have continued over the years, adapting to new economic challenges and ensuring fair competition for consumers.