Late 1800's- The Populist Movement and Industrialization

After the Civil War the west continued to expand.  The Homestead Act and transcontinental railroad led to growth of towns and cities as well as farming and the cattle industry.  Farmers faced problems and organized a grassroots platform and Populist party which proposed many changes in election, tax and economic policy.  A desire to counter deflation and increase the money supply called for "free silver" to back the dollar.  Industry also expanded as a result of new technological advances and natural resources and labor force.  Many individuals became wealthy including Andrew Carnegie and John D, Rockefeller.  Working conditions worsened and unions began to organize.