Passion and Preferences
William Jennings Bryan and the 1896 Democratic Convention

Bensel argues that Bryan's 'Cross of Gold' address exploited a climate of political passion.

Richard Franklin Bensel (Author)

9780521888882, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 24 March 2008

336 pages, 17 tables
24 x 16 x 2.5 cm, 0.59 kg

"[A] detailed, and highly readable, narrative and analysis of the convention."
The Review of Politics, Robert W. Cherny

The 1896 Democratic National Convention simultaneously proposed a radically new trajectory for American industrial expansion, harshly repudiated its own incumbent president, and rudely overturned the party's traditional regional and social hierarchy. The passion that attended these decisions was deeply embedded in the traditional alliances and understandings of the past, in the careers and futures of the party's most prominent leaders and most insignificant ward heelers, and in the personal relations of men who had long served together in the halls of Congress. This passion was continuously on display in the Chicago Coliseum, shaped by the rhythm of parliamentary ritual and the physical architecture of the convention hall. William Jennings Bryan anticipated the moment when pathos would be at its height and chose that moment to give his 'Cross of Gold' address, thus harnessing passion to his personal ambition and winning the presidential nomination.

1. Introduction
2. The road to Chicago
3. Silver sentiment in the convention
4. Prospects for a gold bolt
5. Rules and rituals
6. Display of passion
7. Bryan's cross of gold speech
8. The nomination contest
9. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Politics & government [JP], Modern history to 20th century: c 1700 to c 1900 [HBLL]