"The Bellwomen recounts the history of this case in a novelistic style, illuminating the motivations, strengths, and weaknesses of all the players, from AT&T corporate leaders, to the lawyers of the EEOC, to the female activists fighting for what they believed. Stockford also profiles three beneficiaries of the case, presenting their ambitions and achievements."--BOOK JACKET.

Considers alleged unethical practices of major oil companies to eliminate competition and control the marketing of gasoline, oil, and related automobile accessories by retail service station franchises. Apr. 7 hearing was held in Los Angeles, Calif.; pt. 2: Hearings were held in San Diego, Calif.; pt. 3: Nov. 3 hearing was held in Richmond, Va; Nov. 4 hearing was held in Abingdon, Va.; pt. 4: Considers allegations of antitrust law violations by banana distributing companies; pt. 5: Considers Justice Dept antitrust consent decrees impact on antitrust law enforcement. Examines justification and impact of consent decree regarding ATT voice telecommunications service and Western Electric Co. telephone equipment regulation; pt. 6: Considers alleged violations of antitrust laws in the baking industry and their impact on small businesses; pt. 7: Investigates the harmful economic effects of smog on small business in the Los Angeles area. Hearing was held in Los Angeles, Calif.; pt. 8: Investigates problems of small business, with particular emphasis on the gasoline retail industry. Hearing was held in Jacksonville, Fla.