What was the primary focus of the Populist Movement?

The primary focus of the Populist Movement was to support the interests of farmers and working-class Americans. Emerging in the late 19th century, particularly in the 1890s, the movement arose in response to the economic hardships faced by these groups due to the rapid industrialization and the dominance of big businesses, which often left farmers in dire financial situations.

The movement sought to address these issues through various reforms, such as advocating for the regulation of railroads, the introduction of the graduated income tax, and the adoption of the free coinage of silver, which many believed would alleviate debt burdens and increase the money supply. By rallying the voices of farmers and laborers, the Populist Movement aimed to create a political platform that reflected the needs and concerns of those who felt marginalized by the prevailing economic system.