1896 Presidential Election

The 1896 U.S. presidential election was a contest mainly between William McKinley, a Republican, and William Jennings Bryan, a Democrat and Populist supporter. McKinley promoted economic stability and backed tariffs to protect American industries, winning the election. Bryan championed free silver—wanting to coin silver to increase money supply and assist farmers—knowing it divided opinions. The campaign highlighted debates over economic policies during a time of economic depression. McKinley's victory marked a shift toward Republican dominance, emphasizing business interests, while Bryan’s campaign energized farmers and those favoring monetary expansion.