Cross of Gold Speech

The Cross of Gold Speech, delivered by William Jennings Bryan in 1896, was a powerful address supporting the use of silver alongside gold as the basis for U.S. currency. Bryan advocated for "bimetallism," believing it would help farmers and working people by increasing the money supply and making debts easier to repay. His speech famously condemned the gold standard, which he felt favored financiers and big corporations at the expense of ordinary Americans. It resonated strongly with agrarian and populist groups, helping him secure the Democratic nomination for president that year.