Populist Movement and 1896 Election

The video explores the rise of populism in the United States, focusing on the challenges faced by farmers post-Civil War, including economic struggles and dissatisfaction with railroads and banks. It discusses the formation of farmers' alliances and the Granger movement, leading to the creation of the Populist Party. The party's platform aimed to address political corruption and economic issues, advocating for free silver and government regulation. The video also covers the economic depression of the 1890s and the political shifts that followed, highlighting the role of William Jennings Bryan and the debate over the gold standard.

What was the primary goal of the Homestead Act?

• To provide free education to settlers

• To offer land to settlers for farming

• To grant land to railroad companies

• To establish new cities in the West

Why did farmers begin to resent railroads in the late 19th century?

• Railroads refused to transport agricultural goods

• Railroads only operated in urban areas

• Railroads were owned by foreign companies

• Railroads charged high rates for transportation

What was the main objective of the Granger movement?

• To establish new political parties

• To support urban workers

• To provide education on farming techniques

• To promote industrialization

Which political party emerged from the Farmers' Alliances?

• The Green Party

• The Populist Party

• The Democratic Party

• The Republican Party

What was a key issue in the 1896 election?

• The establishment of new states

• The expansion of the railroad network

• The abolition of slavery

• The debate over free silver vs. the gold standard

Who delivered the 'Cross of Gold' speech?

• William Jennings Bryan

• William McKinley

• James B. Weaver

• Grover Cleveland

What was the outcome of the 1896 presidential election?

• The election was declared invalid

• The Populist Party gained control of Congress

• William McKinley won the popular vote

• William Jennings Bryan won by a landslide

What was one lasting impact of the Populist movement?

• The establishment of a national bank

• The immediate end of the gold standard

• The creation of new states in the West

• The adoption of a graduated income tax

Which candidate was known for touring the nation and speaking directly to the people during the 1896 election?

• William McKinley

• Grover Cleveland

• James B. Weaver

• William Jennings Bryan

What was a significant reason for the decline of the Populist Party?

• Adoption of all their policies by the Democrats

• Victory in the 1896 election

• Lack of support from urban workers

• Merger with the Republican Party