The problems of the Democratic Party Flashcards
How did the 1896 election reveal the strengths of the Democratic Party with Bryan?
Bryan was a major political figure, capable of mobilising mass audiences in a moral crusade against perceived injustices. The grass roots rebellion of Populism was a serious challenge to the political establishment.
How did the 1896 election reveal the weaknesses of the Democratic Party with Bryan?
Bryan divided opinion, and his central theme in 1896, the demand for ‘free silver’, was as likely to alienate voters in the Northeast as it was to enthuse voters in the South and the Great Plains.
Describe how Democratic Party divisions were starkly exposed in 1904.
Bryan and Cleveland each faced entrenched opposition from within the party. The nominating convention was dominated by anti-Bryan, pro-business conservatives and the man who gained the nomination, Parker, was little known.
What happened in 1908?
The Democrats turned once again to Bryan.
By 1908, how had Bryan’s views changed?
He had adopted more moderate, progressive views - no longer campaigning for ‘free silver’, and trying to appeal to conservative pro-business Democrats as well as his traditional support from the South and West.
What effect did Bryan’s new approach have?
Little effect. Bryan lost again, failing to win a single state in the Northeast.
What happened from 1910?
There was a revival in the fortunes of the Democratic Party. This was partly due to the cracks that were beginning to appear in the Republican political machine.
What had president Taft done in 1910?
Alienated progressive Republicans (and his political mentor, Roosevelt) by his shift to more conservative policies and by appointing conservatives to government posts.
What happened in the mid-term election of 1910?
The Democrats surprised themselves by winning control of the House of Representatives - made many Democrats optimistic about winning the presidency in 1912; many Republicans saw it as a ‘disaster’.
Describe Wilson.
He was a Southerner, a pacifist and a progressive idealist, and the son of a minister in the Southern Presbyterian Church.
Why was it clear in 1911 that Wilson was likely to run for presidency?
He had pushed through an energetic programme of reform and gained respect for his decisive leadership.
What did Wilson enter the 1912 election campaign as?
A talented leader, capable of uniting the disparate elements of the Democratic Party.
What happened when Roosevelt failed to win Republican nomination?
Roosevelt was then willing to split the party by taking over the leadership of the new National Progressive Party to challenge his former political ally, Taft.
What was Wilson also pushing forward?
A Progressive agenda; but, unlike Roosevelt, Wilson was a unifier.
What was Wilson able to attack?
Taft and the Republicans as the party of big business and high protective tariffs. The election result was a dramatic rejection of Taft and conservative Republicanism.
