Contributing Factors to the Populist Movement

During the late 19th century, the Populist Movement emerged as a response to the economic struggles faced by farmers and laborers in the United States. The movement sought to address issues such as the monopoly control of railroads, the rise of corporate power, and the declining economic status of rural Americans. One of the key platforms of the Populist Party was the demand for the free coinage of silver, which they believed would increase the money supply and help alleviate debts. Which of the following factors most significantly contributed to the rise of the Populist Movement during this period?