1. Why were the Republicans so dominant from 1896 – 1912?

2. Republican History Formed 1854, anti-slavery. Led by Abraham Lincoln.
After 1865 gradually moved away from liberal traditions.
Not united, but kept divisions hidden.
Local interests most important.

3. Democrats History Claims to be oldest party, 1796.
Defeated in Civil War
Deep divisions.
Dependant on resentment of white Southerners.

4. Republican Strengths Growth of conservative, big business influence
Mark Hanna
Coal, iron, shipping and banking.
Invested own money and raised huge sums.
Anti TR.
Reformist wing, TR, anti-trust, social justice conservation.

5. Democratic Weakness Divided.
Lost support of Unions following 1894 Pullman Strike.
Long run of defeats.
Rising influence of progressivism.
Depression in 1893.