Final answer:
The Granger and Populist movements aimed to pass laws to increase federal regulation of monopolies and sought economic reforms like the unlimited coinage of silver to assist farmers and working-class Americans. Despite some successes, their influence waned after the 1896 election, although many of their proposed reforms gained traction in later years.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option : a
The major aim of both the Granger and Populist movements was the passage of laws increasing Federal regulation of monopolies. These movements emerged in response to the challenges faced by farmers and working-class Americans as they confronted the economic difficulties towards the close of the 19th century, particularly due to restricted money supply under the gold standard. Famers sought relief through the coinage of silver, believing that a bi-metallic standard would inflate the economy and ease their debts.
The Populist Party, which was heavily influenced by the concerns of the farming community, advocated for policies that included financial reforms such as the unlimited coinage of silver, which they believed would increase the money in circulation and assist farmers and the working class. They also supported the direct election of U.S. Senators and an eight-hour workday among other initiatives aimed at addressing economic and political inequalities of the time. Despite some electoral success and influencing future reforms, the Populist Party declined following the 1896 presidential election.