Lesson 1.04: Populist Movement

• Introduction
• Farmers Organize
• Political Cartoon
• Practice
• Task

Farmers Organize

	A local Grange meeting in Edwardsville, Illinois
A local Grange meeting in Edwardsville, Illinois.  2005. Image. 1 August 2010. <http://www.discoveryeducation.com/>.

In the late 1800s farmers in the South and West faced enormous obstacles that often hindered their ability to become profitable. After receiving little or no help from the federal government, many farmers decided to organize politically.  Within a few years of organizing, farmers were able to garner support for programs and regulations that supported various farmer causes and interests. In doing so, the farmers not only left a significant impact on other farmers, but also on the American political system at large.

Read or watch "The People's Party" and "The Election of 1896" presentations provided below. As you review the information, complete the 1.04 Populist Movement chart. You may print the chart before viewing the lessons. Once finished, submit the work to the 1.04 Populist Movement Dropbox. Note: You do not have to review "The Election of 1892" presentation for this assignment.

Open presentation in a new window

Did You Know?

 

	Dorothy meets the Cowardly Lion
Dorothy meets the Cowardly Lion, from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz first edition. Library of Congress LC Control No.: 03032405 (p. 81)

 

Did you know that the movie, The Wizard of Oz, actually has many Populist movement allegories? The author, L. Frank Baum, was heavily influenced by the movement and included many elements in the book. For instance, the Scarecrow (farmers) and Cowardly Lion (Bryan) are taken down the yellow brick road (gold standard) that leads to nowhere. They all go to the Emerald City (Washington) in hopes of influencing the Wizard of Oz (president).

For more information, read Over the Rainbow.