Which candidate won the 1900 presidential election after previously losing in 1896?

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Prepare for UCF's AMH2020 U.S. History exam. Enhance your knowledge with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with explanations. Get exam-ready now!

The candidate who won the 1900 presidential election after previously losing in 1896 is William McKinley. In the 1896 election, McKinley faced off against William Jennings Bryan, who was a strong advocate for bimetallism and the interests of farmers and populists. McKinley's victory in that election marked a significant shift toward a more conservative financial policy, emphasizing the gold standard and industrial growth.

In 1900, McKinley ran for re-election against Bryan once again. His campaign focused on the prosperity that the U.S. had experienced during his first term, particularly due to the economic recovery following the depression of the 1890s and the successful conclusion of the Spanish-American War. McKinley’s support for imperialism and economic stability resonated with voters, leading to his re-election in a landslide victory in which he garnered a significant majority of both the popular and electoral votes.

This context illuminates the significance of McKinley's policies and campaign strategy, which effectively contrasted with Bryan's ideals, helping to shore up his political position and appeal to a broader electorate after the challenges faced during his first campaign.