description William Jennings Bryan Overview
William Jennings Bryan (1860–1925) was a prominent American politician, lawyer, and orator who served as Secretary of State under Woodrow Wilson and became a three-time Democratic presidential nominee. He rose to national prominence following his 1896 "Cross of Gold" speech, which advocated for bimetallism and established him as a leader of the Populist movement. In his later career, Bryan campaigned heavily for Prohibition and against the teaching of evolution. He is historically recognized for prosecuting the 1925 Scopes Trial, arguing against evolutionary theory in public schools shortly before his death.
help William Jennings Bryan FAQ
What was William Jennings Bryan's Cross of Gold speech?
It was Bryan's famous 1896 Democratic National Convention speech supporting the free coinage of silver. The speech made him a national political figure and helped secure his presidential nomination.
How many times did William Jennings Bryan run for president?
Bryan was the Democratic presidential nominee three times, in 1896, 1900, and 1908. He lost all three elections and never served as president.
What government position did William Jennings Bryan hold?
He served as Secretary of State under President Woodrow Wilson from 1913 until 1915. Bryan resigned during the debate over how the United States should respond to World War I.
What was William Jennings Bryan's role in the Scopes Trial?
In 1925, Bryan joined the prosecution in the Scopes Trial in Tennessee, which concerned the teaching of evolution in public schools. He opposed the teaching of evolution and was questioned by Clarence Darrow during the trial.
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