Goals of the Populist Movement

The Populist Movement of the late 19th century sought to address a variety of social and economic issues affecting farmers and laborers. Among the key goals of this movement was the promotion of monetary reform and the establishment of political reforms intended to empower the common people over the elite. As you consider the underlying motivations of the Populist Movement, reflect on one of its main strategies: the push for direct election of U.S. Senators.

This strategy was particularly important as it aimed to reduce the influence of powerful interests in the Senate, which was seen as a body that primarily represented wealthy business interests rather than the public. The Populist Party's platform reflected these goals, and their influence was felt in various elections throughout the 1890s.