Final answer:
The demands of the Populist Party were reasonable and rational responses to the problems facing their constituency. They advocated for economic reforms such as unlimited coinage of silver and regulation of railroads to address financial hardships and unfair practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The demands of the Populist Party were reasonable and rational responses to the problems facing their constituency. The Populists advocated for economic reforms that would benefit farmers and industrial workers, who were facing economic hardships during the late 19th century. They called for policies such as the unlimited coinage of silver, government regulation of railroads, and direct election of senators, which would address the issues of inflation, unfair business practices, and political corruption.
For example, the demand for unlimited coinage of silver would increase the money supply and help alleviate the farmers' financial burdens by raising crop prices. Similarly, the call for government regulation of railroads aimed to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure fair shipping rates for farmers. These demands were based on the real problems faced by the Populist constituency and sought to bring about necessary economic and political reforms.