How did the populists play a role in the presidential election of 1896 apex?

The populists played a significant role in the presidential election of 1896 by supporting the Democratic candidate, William Jennings Bryan, who advocated for many of their reforms, including the free coinage of silver to increase the money supply. This alliance aimed to unite farmers and laborers against the interests of big businesses and banks. However, the Populist Party ultimately struggled to maintain its identity and influence, as many of their supporters were absorbed into the Democratic platform, leading to a split in their ranks. The election marked a pivotal moment in American politics, highlighting the tensions between rural and urban interests.