The Election of 1896 Explained

The video explores the 1896 election, highlighting the emergence of modern campaign systems and the fourth political system. It discusses Republican dominance from 1861 to 1928, focusing on the bimetallism debate. The Littlefield thesis is introduced, suggesting The Wizard of Oz as an allegory for the election. William Jennings Bryan's rise through the Cross of Gold speech and his impact on the Democratic Party is covered. The video contrasts Bryan's campaign with McKinley's, emphasizing McKinley's strategy and the role of tariffs. The video concludes with acknowledgments and a call to action for subscribers.

What was a significant outcome of the 1896 election?

• The abolition of the electoral college

• The emergence of the modern campaign system

• The end of the Republican Party

• The rise of a new third party

Which economic policy was at the heart of American politics in the 1890s?

• Bimetalism

• Isolationism

• Socialism

• Free trade

According to the Littlefield thesis, who does Dorothy represent in 'The Wizard of Oz'?

• The American government

• The American people

• The gold standard

• The Populist Party

What was the main theme of William Jennings Bryan's Cross of Gold speech?

• Criticism of the gold standard

• Support for the gold standard

• Advocacy for free trade

• Promotion of isolationism

How did William Jennings Bryan's nomination affect the Democratic Party?

• It caused the party to dissolve

• It aligned the party with big business

• It shifted the party towards urban centers and workers

• It made the party more conservative

What was a key strategy of William McKinley's campaign?

• Raising funds from big corporations

• Promoting isolationism

• Focusing on social issues

• Traveling extensively to meet voters

What was the stance of William McKinley on tariffs?

• He was neutral on tariffs

• He supported economic protectionism

• He wanted to abolish tariffs

• He supported reducing tariffs

Which region did William McKinley have strong support from during the election?

• The West

• The Northeast

• The Pacific

• The South

What was a major concern for factory workers regarding William Jennings Bryan's policies?

• Loss of jobs to overseas markets

• Decreased wages

• Inflation and factory closures

• Increased taxes

What was the voter turnout like in the 1896 election?

• Moderate turnout

• Low turnout

• High turnout

• Turnout was not recorded