The Slaughterhouse Cases
- Date Range
- January 11, 1872 – April 14, 1873
- Title
- The Slaughterhouse Cases
- What occurred
- In 1869, the Louisiana Legislature passed a law that essentially monopolized New Orleans slaughtering companies under one corporation. As a result, hundreds of small, private butcher shops were driven out of business. The new monopolization was alleged to improve the quality of production and meat of these butcher shops, because they were previously deemed unsanitary. The local butchers were rightfully furious with this new law, because they were prevented from making earnings, and they believed the law went against the privileges and immunity clause of the Constitution. This case was ultimately brought to the Supreme Court claiming it was a violation of the 14th Amendment; the Court, however, ruled against the slaughterhouse. This case proved that the United States was shifting toward an increasing centralized government. The case also indirectly accounted for an improved food regulation process because having the slaughterhouses under one company would allow for a more thorough, safe food inspection.
- Location
- 6123 Bienvenue St, New Orleans, LA
- Image Citation
- https://www.thirteen.org/wnet/supremecourt/antebellum/landmark_slaughterhouse.html
- Student name(s)
- Jeremy Schmelkin
Part of The Slaughterhouse Cases