What were the sick industries of

Here are some of the "Sick Industries" that were heavily regulated or broken up during the Progressive Era in the United States (late 19th and early 20th centuries):

1. Railroad Industry: Railroads had become powerful monopolies, engaging in unfair pricing, discrimination, and political corruption. The Interstate Commerce Act (1887) and subsequent regulations aimed to regulate and control the industry.

2. Oil Industry: The oil industry was dominated by large companies like Standard Oil, led by John D. Rockefeller. The company employed aggressive tactics to eliminate competition, including predatory pricing and control over transportation and distribution. The Sherman Antitrust Act (1890) was used to break up Standard Oil into smaller entities.

3. Meatpacking Industry: The meatpacking industry faced criticism for unsanitary conditions, adulteration of meat products, and worker exploitation. The Jungle, a novel published by Upton Sinclair in 1906, exposed the horrors of the industry and led to the passage of the Meat Inspection Act (1906) and the Pure Food and Drug Act (1906).

4. Banking and Finance Industry: The lack of regulations in the banking and finance sector led to financial panics and instability. The Panic of 1907 prompted reforms such as the creation of the Federal Reserve System in 1913 to centralize banking operations and regulate the money supply.

5. Tobacco Industry: The tobacco industry was criticized for its use of child labor and deceptive advertising. The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 gave the government authority to regulate tobacco products, leading to restrictions on false advertising and increased labeling requirements.

6. Insurance Industry: The insurance industry faced issues related to fraud, lack of regulation, and unfair practices. State-level regulations and the creation of insurance commissions aimed to protect consumers and ensure fair treatment of policyholders.

7. Pharmaceutical Industry: Concerns about the safety and quality of medications led to the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906. This legislation authorized federal inspections of drug manufacturers and allowed the government to take action against misbranded or adulterated products.

These "sick industries" became targets of reform during the Progressive Era as public awareness grew about issues such as worker exploitation, food safety, unfair competition, and the need for government oversight and regulation.