Cele 49 de minute care au distrus un gigant petrolier

The dissolution of Standard Oil, a major oil monopoly founded by John D. Rockefeller, was ordered by the U.S. Supreme Court after a 49-minute verdict. The court found that Standard Oil posed a significant threat to free trade despite its growth through legitimate competitive methods. This ruling led to the creation of five major companies, including Exxon and Chevron, from the original monopoly. Rockefeller, informed of the decision while golfing, saw his wealth rise significantly in the following years. Standard Oil's empire began in 1863 and grew to control a vast majority of the U.S. oil market by 1904.