Emergence Of Modern America: The Gilded Age - The Birth Of The Populist Party

The economic panic of 1873 led to declining agricultural prices, causing financial distress for farmers. Blaming Eastern bankers, farmers formed alliances in the 1880s, advocating for railroad regulation, tax reform, and silver coinage. Ignored by major parties, they formed the Populist Party in 1892, focusing on silver coinage, income tax, and national bank abolition. The Populists gained support from disillusioned farmers and workers, influencing the Democratic Party. However, after the 1896 election loss and rising farm prices, the Populist Party dissolved, leaving a lasting political impact.

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