Populist Party (Noun)
Meaning
A former political party in the United States; formed in 1891 to advocate currency expansion and state control of railroads.
Classification
Nouns denoting groupings of people or objects.
Examples
- The Populist Party was a significant force in American politics during the late 19th century, particularly in the western and southern states.
- The party's platform, which included demands for free silver and government ownership of railroads, resonated with many farmers and laborers who felt disenfranchised by the existing two-party system.
- In 1892, the Populist Party nominated James B. Weaver for president, but he lost the election to Grover Cleveland.
- The Populist Party's influence began to wane in the early 20th century, as many of its supporters defected to the Democratic Party or the Socialist Party of America.
- Despite its relatively short lifespan, the Populist Party played an important role in shaping American politics and paving the way for future progressive movements.