1. Lorem Ipsum Dolor
Industrial Age
Populism Unites Farmers

2. Farmers Face Problems Rising debt Falling crop prices
Late 1800’s Western farmers in trouble:
Rising debt
Falling crop prices
Overcharging by railroads
Weather problems
Farmers seek financial relief – had borrowed from banks when “greenbacks” were in circulation – now being forced to repay loans in gold-backed money.

3. The Grange warning farmers that they are being “run over” by RR’s and Eastern banks
1867, farmers create organization known as Patrons of Husbandry or THE GRANGE
Starts as social organization – becomes political
Begins discussing farmers perceived abuses by Eastern railroads and banks

4. Populist Movement
Populism – political movement that grew out of Granger organization
Increase money supply
Graduated income tax
Secret Ballot
Protested railroad abuses such as unfair pricing and rebates for big business
Federal Loans for farmers
8 hour workday
OMAHA PLATFORM:

5. Economic Crisis Panic of 1893 – Banks collapse, 20% unemployment
Farmers (and others) suffer, Democrats and Republicans battle over how to fix issues
Election of 1896 – Key issue: Currency –
Republicans: Support of Northern business and industry, favor GOLD STANDARD
Democrats and Populists: Support of Southern and Western farmers, favor BI-METALLISM (Silver and gold backed currency) AKA “Free Silver”

6. The Cross of Gold
Nebraska politician William Jennings Bryan gives famous “Cross of Gold Speech”, advocating money backed by both Silver and Gold
Democrats so impressed, choose him to run for President
1896 – William Jennings Bryan (Dem./Pop) vs. William McKinley (Republican)

7. End of Populism McKinley wins the election
Populist Movement dies, but leaves lasting legacies:
Demonstrates that downtrodden can organize politically and make a difference
Ideas for reform will be carried out in 20th century