The Populist Party, which existed from 1892 to 1908, appealed to many different groups who felt that the economic policies of the government weren’t working for them. The main groups that the Populists sought to reach included farmers, laborers, and small business owners. Other groups that supported the party included those that wanted to limit the power of big business and monopoly, as well as social reformers.

Farmers

Though many citizens of the United States were struggling economically during the late 19th century, farmers were hit especially hard. They faced falling crop prices due to an overproduction of goods, as well as increasing transportation costs that made it difficult to ship their produce outside of their local area. The Populists had a policy platform that included reforms to support farmers, such as government-sponsored crop insurance and regulation of railroads.

Laborers

Laborers in the late 19th century had to contend with unfair wages, long hours, and dangerous working conditions. The Populists supported labor unions and other measures to increase worker protection. They also supported the election of labor-friendly politicians, which would help to ensure that the needs of working-class people would be heard in government.

Small Business Owners

Small business owners were also affected by the economic policies of the government. They found it hard to compete with larger businesses due to the differences in access to resources and capital. The Populists wanted to level the playing field and supported policy reforms that would benefit small business owners, such as loan forgiveness and anti-monopoly measures.

Other Groups

In addition to farmers, laborers, and small business owners, the Populist Party also appealed to those who wanted to limit the power of big business and monopoly. They also sought to support social reformers, such as women’s suffrage and progressive taxation. Ultimately, the Populist Party’s aim was to create an economy that worked for all citizens.

When looking at the Populist Party, it is clear that it appealed to a wide variety of different groups. From farmers to small business owners, the Populists wanted to create a fairer economy that benefited all citizens of the United States. Though the party only existed for a short time, its legacy still remains and its message of economic reform still resonates today.