Final answer:
The presidential election of 1896 was a turning point in American politics, representing a political realignment. It centered around economic issues and marked the rise of progressivism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presidential election of 1896 is widely regarded as a significant turning point in American politics that led to a major political realignment. It marked the triumph of the Republican Party and the rise of progressivism as a dominant force in American politics. At its core, the election revolved around economic issues, specifically the gold standard and the interests of agrarian and industrial sectors. Republican candidate William McKinley's victory cemented the dominance of conservative policies and marked the end of the Populist movement.
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