The Divestiture of AT&T and the Telecommunications Act of 1996 had a major impact in the United States. The Divestiture of the Bell Operating Companies from AT&T was one of the critical events of the 1980s that continues in importance today.

Give a brief description of the rationale for divestiture, how it relates to the AT&T Consent Decree and other legal actions, and recent consolidation in the industry.

Build a matrix of three pro and three con arguments concerning the break-up of AT&T.

Describe the impact of the Telecom Act of 1996 on

local phone service

cable TV

long-distance phone rates

Discuss the impact of the Telecom Act on:

Mergers and partnerships

Services

Competition