Populist Party Research Paper

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Pages: 1

The Populist Party emerged in the 1880s and 1890s from widespread rural discontent among farmers and laborers. These groups felt exploited by wealthy elites and big business interests like railroads. To represent the interests of farmers and laborers, the Populist Party advocated reforms like unlimited silver coinage, a graduated income tax, public ownership of railroads and utilities, direct election of senators, referendums, and an eight-hour workday. Four years later, the party supported Democratic nominee William Jennings Bryan, who also argued for silver coinage. Over a million votes and 22 electoral votes went to James B. Weaver, the presidential candidate of the Populist Party in 1892. This alliance eroded the Populist Party's distinct