1896 Election Flashcards
Who was the Populist Party’s candidate in the 1896 election?
William Jennings Bryan, nominated by the Democratic Party but supported by Populists.
What was the main issue in the 1896 election?
The debate between the Gold Standard (supported by McKinley) and Free Silver (supported by Bryan).
How did McKinley’s campaign differ from Bryan’s?
McKinley’s campaign was well-financed, using modern campaigning tactics and press support, while Bryan relied on traditional campaigning, traveling thousands of miles and giving speeches.
What were the results of the 1896 election?
McKinley won with 7,036,000 votes (51.0%) and 271 electoral votes, while Bryan received 6,510,807 votes (46.7%) and 176 electoral votes.
What happened in the 1900 election?
McKinley, now with Theodore Roosevelt as his running mate, defeated Bryan again, winning 292 electoral votes to Bryan’s 155.
Why did the Populist Party decline after 1896?
Populism was gradually replaced by Progressivism.
• The Populist Party merged with the Democrats.
• Bryan lost the presidency in 1896, 1900, 1904, and 1908.
• The Gold Standard was maintained, reassuring urban workers.
• Economic recovery after the 1893 depression reduced support for Populist policies.
How did Populism influence U.S. politics despite its decline?
Many of its policies were later adopted by the Progressives, and it had electoral success at state and local levels, with some Populist members serving in Congress.
What role did Mark Hanna play in the 1896 election?
Hanna, a wealthy businessman, financed McKinley’s campaign, using modern campaign techniques and media influence to attack Bryan.
How did the 1896 election impact future U.S. politics?
It marked the dominance of the Republican Party for the next few decades and the decline of agrarian-based movements like Populism.
Why did urban workers oppose Free Silver?
They feared inflation would raise the cost of food and basic goods.
