What year did the Interstate Commerce Act come into effect?

The Interstate Commerce Act came into effect in 1887, marking a significant moment in the regulation of the transportation industry in the United States. This legislation aimed to address the issues arising from the expansion of the railroads, particularly practices like rate discrimination and monopolistic behaviors that negatively impacted consumers and smaller businesses. The Act established the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), which was empowered to oversee the railroads and ensure fair practices, setting a precedent for government intervention in economic matters. Understanding the importance of this legislation provides key insight into the evolution of transportation regulation and the ongoing efforts to maintain fair competition in the industry.