William Jennings Bryan's Cross of Gold speech was delivered during the Democratic National Convention held in Chicago in 1896, a time marked by deep economic distress in the United States. The country was recovering from the Panic of 1893, which led to widespread unemployment and significant financial strife. Bryan, a young congressman from Nebraska, emerged as a leading figure advocating for bimetallism, a monetary policy that supported the coinage of both gold and silver to increase the money supply and combat deflation. His speech was delivered on the evening of July 7 and lasted nearly an hour, captivating the audience and delegates alike. Bryan argued that the gold standard was overly restrictive and favored the wealthy elite at the expense of the working class.In his iconic statement, 'You shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold,' Bryan articulated the struggles of farmers and laborers, emphasizing their need for a monetary policy that would provide them with more accessible credit and economic opportunity. The emotional weight of his rhetoric, combined with a vigorous delivery, won him a roaring applause and secured his position as the Democratic nominee for president. Bryan's speech represented a broader populist movement that sought to address the grievances of those who felt marginalized in the rapidly industrializing America. The conventions took a dramatic turn, leading to a platform focused primarily on bimetallism.Bryan's message resonated with many disenchanted voters, garnering a following that propelled him into the national spotlight. His nomination and the ensuing election campaign ignited a fierce national debate over monetary policy, pitting agrarian and labor interests against the urban elite's preference for gold. The Cross of Gold speech is often regarded as a pivotal moment in the history of American politics, underscoring the tensions between differing economic philosophies and highlighting the role of oratory in shaping political movements.