Author Archives: peterwright

Gold Wins: William Jennings Bryan’s 1896 Defeat

On November 3, 1896, William Jennings Bryan awoke early in Omaha, Nebraska. Looking convivial and relaxed, the Democrat ate a hearty breakfast and headed downtown to travel by train to Lincoln in a regular car. Upon his arrival in the … Continue reading

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Mugwumps and Mudslinging: The Bitter Election of 1884

On November 4, 1884, John Kelly awoke to grey clouds and political uncertainty hanging over New York City. Mr. Kelly, the boss of New York’s notorious Tammany Hall, had gone to bed the night before election day having optimistically told supporters … Continue reading

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