Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-17-2024
Abstract
The Populist movement of the late nineteenth century proved a strong presence in states across the Southern and Western United States for a variety of reasons. Burdensome debt, frustration over monopolies, and overall financial decline characterize the core of Populist’s economic grievances, while demands for more direct participation of citizens in politics provide the basis of their political designs. Each state faced its own unique circumstances that Populists were responding to, but these provide a general framework for the movement nationwide. Despite these shared grievances, Populist candidates and parties did not see equal success across the nation. States west of the Mississippi saw a greater degree of victory, with many candidates reaching political office at the state or national level. East of the Mississippi, however, saw Populists comparatively stymied. The reasons for this disparity are complex and varied, but they largely return to the conditions within the states themselves. The economic conditions, political realities, and social divides of the South and West all played critical roles in Populist defeats and victories alike.
Recommended Citation
Scharff, Ty, "The Populist Movement in Late Nineteenth century America" (2024). Posters. 37.
https://digitalcommons.pittstate.edu/posters_2024/37
