William Jennings Bryan

Democrat Representative of Nebraska's 1st district

Congresses Served

House Terms

March 19, 1860 (65 years old)

Birthday

July 26, 1925

Death

American lawyer, orator, and politician
Ran for President three times as the Democratic nominee (1896, 1900, 1908) but never won
Served in the U.S. House of Representatives and as Secretary of State under President Woodrow Wilson
Known as “the Great Commoner” for his faith in the common people
Advocated for the coinage of silver, anti-imperialism, and various progressive reforms
Delivered the famous “Cross of Gold” speech advocating for bimetallism
Opposed American imperialism, particularly the annexation of the Philippines
Played a key role in the Democratic Party’s shift towards progressive policies in the early 20th century
Actively supported Prohibition and anti-evolution, famously participating in the Scopes Trial
Died shortly after the Scopes Trial in 1925
Buried at Arlington National Cemetery