Populists
In the 1890s, populist leaders appealed to the people by stressing the principle of equality. Populists emphasized that all people were equal and that they should all be treated equally and enjoy similar rights and freedoms. For instance, a slogan by Mary Elizabeth carried the message, “Exact justice to all, special privileges to none” (Elizabeth, 1890). On the other hand, William Bryan stressed all business people's equality despite their activity or location.
These speeches are centered on Christian principles. These ideas and principles are good and are inclusive of everyone. They do not discriminate. Besides, the principles lay a strong foundation for the future of the people. The main limitation of these principles is that it is assumed that everyone supports equality, especially when it comes to profits and gains. Moreover, not everyone believes in the values and principles of Christianity. People are of different religions, ideologies, and faith.
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Women joined the political alliance, as seen in Mary's speech. Women were not allowed to engage in politics. In the 1890s, people had a different attitude about women. In Mary's speech, she reveals that even leaders like John James did not think it was all right for women to vote. However, due to the injustices that were happening, they were forced to join in. Another evidence was that the democrats also supported the idea of introducing the coinage of silver and doing away with the gold coinage, as seen in Bryan's speech (Bryan, 1896).
A theme like equality would resonate with today's audience. Mary’s slogan of “Exact justice to all, special privileges to none" is something today's politicians would talk about. It would appeal to the black community and other immigrant communities. The ideas of involving women and changing the currency are outdated.
References
Bryan, W. J. (1925). Cross of Gold . Library of Congress, Music Division.
Harpine, W. D. (2001). Bryan's “a cross of gold:” The rhetoric of polarization at the 1896 democratic convention. Quarterly Journal of Speech , 87 (3), 291-304.
