The Private Capture of Public Genius
This article examines the 1956 antitrust settlement that forced AT&T to release its vast patent portfolio to the public. It explores the tension between the company's role as a regulated monopoly and the government's effort to foster competition and innovation.
Why it matters
The historical case serves as a critical study on how antitrust regulation impacts corporate research and development and the broader technology ecosystem.
10 6 10 Share On January 24, 1956, the American Telephone and Telegraph Company was the largest private company in the world.
The piece provides a historical analysis of corporate and government actions, presenting multiple perspectives on the effectiveness of the antitrust decree.
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