The struggle between the gold and silver standard in the presidential election of 1896

this article is devoted to the struggle between the supporters of the gold and silver standards in American society in the second half of the 19th century. Particular attention is paid to the confrontation of economic ideologies of the two largest parties – Republicans and Democrats, and their presidential candidates, W. Bryan and W. McKinley, as a way to influence their electorate. A comprehensive description of the two main US parties – Democratic and Republican – is provided. The article provides a rationale for W. McKinley's victory over W. Bryan as a reflection of the economic sentiments and trends in American society at that time. It is shown which strata of the American population supported W. McKinley's candidacy. The personalities of the two candidates in the 1896 presidential election are considered in detail. The work of the candidates' teams during their election campaign is described. The tools of influence of the propaganda campaign of both candidates, both on their own and on someone else's electorate, are analyzed. The reasons for the victory of W. McKinley over W. Bryan in the 1896 presidential election are shown. The results and consequences of the 1896 presidential election are revealed, both on the domestic and foreign economy of the United States.

presidential elections, gold standard, silver standard, bimetallism, capital