1. The Origins of Populism

2. The Grange Started by Oliver Hudson Kelley Formed to stand up against railroad companies that were overcharging farmers

3. Populist Movement Wanted to increase the political power of farmers and laborers Favored using paper money, “greenbacks”, to increase the nations money supply Wanted to more government regulation of businesses

4. Populist Movement Munn v. Illinois: states could regulate commerce within their state Wabash v. Illinois: only the federal government could regulate trade that crosses state borders

5. Omaha Platform Populists campaign platform in 1896 Wanted bimetallism, direct election of senators, graduated income tax, and regulation of railroads

6. Election of 1896 William McKinley William Jennings Bryan

7. Populist leader Won the Democratic nomination in 1896 Supported bimetallism Made famous “Cross of Gold” speech Lost election to McKinley and Populist Party died

8. Cross of Gold “You shall not press down upon the brow of labor this crown of thorns, you shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold!” Speech made by Bryan in support of bimetallism