The Common Man: Bryan and McKinley in the 1896 Presidential Election
What were the key events and candidates in the 1896 presidential election?
Choose the TRUE statements based on The Common Man reading. - Bryan was the Democratic candidate for President in 1896. - Bryan was not popular with farmers. - Bryan did not like the gold interests. - McKinley was the Republican candidate for President in 1896. - Bryan was a poor public speaker. - McKinley got more campaign donations than Bryan. - In 1896 Bryan got more votes than any presidential candidate before him. - Bryan wanted the money supply to be based on gold.
Answer:
The correct statements from The Common Man reading are: - Bryan was the Democratic candidate for President in 1896. - McKinley was the Republican candidate for President in 1896. - In 1896 Bryan got more votes than any presidential candidate before him.
In the 1896 presidential election, William Jennings Bryan represented the Democratic Party, while William McKinley was the Republican candidate. Bryan, known for his support of bimetallism and "free silver," was a popular figure among farmers and advocated for the interests of the common people.
Despite being a powerful orator and receiving significant popular support, Bryan ultimately lost to McKinley, who had the backing of the gold interests and secured more campaign donations. The election results were historic, with Bryan receiving more votes than any previous presidential candidate up to that time.
Bryan's platform and campaign focused on economic issues, particularly the debate over whether the money supply should be based on gold or silver. This was a critical point of contention in the election and reflected broader divisions in American society during the late 19th century.
The 1896 presidential election highlighted the clash between the interests of the common man, represented by Bryan, and the established economic powers, supported by McKinley. The outcome of the election had lasting implications for American politics and the direction of economic policy in the country.