That branch of law which seeks to prevent monopolies and unfair competition. A “trust” was originally a combination of several corporations (each maintaining its separate identity) to eliminate competition, control prices, and the like. The term “antitrust” now broadly covers any activity (or conspiracy) to eliminate competition and control the marketplace. It includes actions which unreasonably restrain trade. Such activities are illegal, and severe penalties are imposed by antitrust laws. For example, the trust may be broken up, and anyone who suffers injury to his business or property as a result of the combination or conspiracy may collect treble damages. Federal antitrust laws (principally the Sherman Act of 1890, the Clayton Act of 1914, and the Federal Trade Commission Act of 1914) apply to companies doing business in interstate commerce. Many states also have antitrust laws.