How did the populists play a role in the presidential election 0f 1896

The Populist party was a political platform made up the different farmers interest groups who were fighting for the business interest of farmers.During late 19th century some organizations were formed to speak about the demands of farmers. Because the rural farmers were suffering from high transport cost,high interest rate etc.

However, this farmer organization alliance made a political party named as Populist party on 1891 and participated in presidential election on 1892. They gained 8.5% popular vote which indicates their growing popularity.

On 1896, Democratic party got the support of populist party in the presidential election and  William Jennings Bryan was their candidate.The effect of the fusion of the Populist Party and the Democratic Party was a disaster in the South. There was a conflict between the populist party and democrats on the question of African Americans, as the south leaders were strongly racist.

Even though the influence of the Populist party,Democrat candidate lost in the election.

Explanation:

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