People's Party (Populist Party)

The People's Party, also known as the Populist Party, was a political movement in the United States during the late 19th century, primarily active in the 1890s. It emerged from farmers and workers advocating for reforms like government control of railroads and banks, free coinage of silver to boost the economy, and increased political influence for common people. The party aimed to challenge the dominance of big businesses and traditional political elites, promoting a more democratic system that served the interests of ordinary Americans, particularly rural farmers. Although it declined after the 1896 election, its ideas influenced future progressive reforms.