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Big Business

Definition

Big Business refers to large-scale corporations that control a significant portion of the economy. These businesses have substantial influence over market trends, labor practices, and even government policies.

Analogy

Think of Big Business as the popular kids in school. They're influential, they set trends, and they often have a say in how things are run.

Related terms

Monopoly: A monopoly is when one company has exclusive control over a product or service in a particular market. It's like if only one student had all the candy at school - they could set any price they wanted because no one else was selling candy.

Corporation: A corporation is a type of business that's legally considered an individual entity separate from its owners. It's like if your school club was considered its own person with rights and responsibilities.

Trusts: Trusts are arrangements where one party holds property for the benefit of another party. In terms of big business, this often means consolidating several companies under one board of directors to control competition - kind of like forming an alliance in a game to ensure you win.

"Big Business" appears in:

Practice Questions (1)

  • Which principle of big business persisted throughout the Gilded Age?


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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.