Create a five- to seven-point, bullet point list of the factors that led to political stalemate and the subsequent farmers’ revolt in the late 19th Century.
To create a five- to seven-point bullet point list of the factors that led to political stalemate and the subsequent farmers' revolt in the late 19th Century, we need to consider the historical context and events that unfolded during that time. Here's a bullet point list explaining the factors:
1. Economic depression: The late 19th Century was marked by a series of economic downturns, including the Panic of 1873 and 1893. These depressions caused widespread unemployment, bankruptcies, and reduced farm incomes, resulting in discontent among farmers.
2. High debt and taxes: Farmers faced high levels of debt due to increased borrowing to purchase expensive machinery and farmland. Additionally, they felt burdened by excessive taxes levied by state and federal governments, which further strained their economic situation.
3. Railroad monopoly and unfair pricing: Farmers relied heavily on railroads to transport their goods to market, but railroad companies held a monopoly and charged exorbitant rates for shipping, which significantly ate into farmers' profits. This led to the demand for railroad regulation and fair pricing.
4. Lack of government intervention: The government's laissez-faire approach meant that there was little regulation or intervention in the economy. This absence of oversight allowed large corporations to wield significant power and manipulate markets to their advantage, leaving farmers feeling marginalized and without a voice.
5. Political ingrainedness: Both major political parties, the Democrats and Republicans, were largely influenced by corporate interests and urban voters. As a result, agricultural issues were often sidelined, and farmers found it challenging to gain political representation and influence policy decisions.
6. Formation of agrarian movements: Dissatisfied with the existing political system, farmers began forming agrarian movements, such as the Farmers' Alliance and the Grange. These organizations aimed to promote farmer solidarity, advocate for their economic rights, and to have a political voice in the face of the prevailing political stalemate.
7. Populist movement and the election of 1896: The Farmers' Alliance eventually joined forces with the emerging Populist Party, a political movement that aimed to challenge the dominance of big business and champion the interests of farmers and workers. The election of 1896 saw several Populist candidates running for office, representing a significant challenge to the existing political order and highlighting the strength of the farmers' revolt.
These factors, combined, led to the rise of political stalemate and the subsequent farmers' revolt in the late 19th Century.