What was the purpose of free silver?

Answer 1

The purpose of free silver was to advocate for the unlimited coinage of silver to increase the money supply, which proponents believed would lead to inflation, making it easier for farmers and debtors to repay loans. This movement gained traction in the late 19th century, particularly among those who felt that the gold standard favored wealthy industrialists and harmed working-class individuals. Supporters argued that adopting free silver would stimulate economic growth and alleviate financial hardship. Ultimately, the movement was a key issue in the 1896 presidential election, symbolizing broader economic and social struggles of the time.