Question

Use the quotation below and your knowledge of U.S. history to answer the question:

"Having behind us the producing masses of this nation and the world, supported by the commercial Interests, the laboring interests, and the folders everywhere, we will answer their demand for a gold standard by saying to them: You shall not press down upon the brow of labor this crown of thorns, you shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold." - William Jennings Bryan, Democratic Convention Speech, 1896
Which of the following groups would have been most likely to agree with the point of view expressed in the quotation?
A) Workers
B) Merchants
C) Bankers
D) Farmers

Answer 1

The group most likely to agree with William Jennings Bryan's anti-gold standard perspective from his 1896 speech would be Farmers, as their economic situation aligned with the benefits expected from a bimetallic standard.

Step-by-step explanation:

The quotation from William Jennings Bryan's speech at the Democratic Convention in 1896 reflects his opposition to the gold standard and support for a bimetallic standard, especially using silver, which would theoretically expand the currency supply and benefit those who were struggling under the prevailing economic conditions.

Bryan advocated for the interests of the 'producing masses' and consistently spoke against the financial policies that favored wealthy creditors and bankers. The group most likely to agree with the viewpoint expressed in Bryan's quotation would be D) Farmers, who were experiencing debt and foreclosures and sought relief through a more lenient monetary policy that a bimetallic standard could provide.