Why did farmers, laborers, and reformers join together to form the Populist Party?

Farmers, laborers, and reformers joined together to form the Populist Party in the late 19th century primarily because of economic grievances and a shared desire for reforms that would improve their livelihoods and give them a greater voice in government. The key reasons for their unity included:

1. Economic Hardships: Farmers faced several economic challenges during this period, including low crop prices, high debt levels, and unfair railroad practices that charged exorbitant rates for shipping and storage. These issues made it difficult for farmers to make a profit and maintain their livelihoods.

2. Monetary Policy: Many farmers and laborers advocated for the free coinage of silver to increase the money supply, which they believed would raise crop prices and make debts easier to pay off. This was in direct opposition to the gold standard, which constrained the money supply and was supported by bankers and Eastern business interests.

3. Political Representation: Both groups felt that their interests were not adequately represented by the existing political parties, which they saw as primarily serving the interests of industrialists and the wealthy elite. They believed forming their own party would give them a stronger voice and the ability to push for legislation that catered to working-class Americans.

4. Labor Concerns: Laborers were facing their own issues with long hours, low wages, and unsafe working conditions. Workers sought out alliances with other groups, like farmers, who were also challenging the established economic and political order.

5. Reform Agendas: Many reformers joined the Populist movement because it addressed a wide range of issues, including direct election of senators, a graduated income tax, and government control of public utilities. These reformers saw the Populist Party as a way to promote broader social and economic changes.

By joining together, these diverse groups sought to create a coalition strong enough to challenge the entrenched power of the industrialists and to influence American politics in favor of the common people. This collaboration brought together urban and rural discontent into a single political force, leading to the creation of the Populist Party, also known as the People's Party, in 1891.