In the sweltering summer of 1896, people congregated under an expansive sky, eager to absorb the impactful rhetoric of William Jennings Bryan. He was not a towering figure in terms of stature but commanded immense respect and attention as he spoke to the restless spirit of the nation. His powerful oratory resonated, flowing through the audience like a mighty river.

At the zenith of his address, Bryan passionately opposed the gold standard, proclaiming a line that would become legendary: “You shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold!” With arms outstretched, he seemed to embody the weight of his message, uniting the hopes and struggles of the people. The audience, previously a single entity, fractured into diverse reactions—some erupted in support, while others expressed dissent, highlighting the deep divisions within American society.

As silence enveloped the crowd, it was a moment of reckoning, marking a nation at a crossroads, grappling with its identity and the conflicting visions of prosperity represented by gold and silver.

In this pivotal moment, Bryan symbolized not just a man but a larger narrative of a nation in flux, with his open arms connecting the past and future of America.

A Personal Exploration of American History …

I thoroughly enjoyed my American History class at Middle Tennessee State University, where I meticulously took notes and included images to enhance my learning. One memorable caption accompanied a picture of Henry Ford’s famous quote: “You can have it in any color you like as long as it is black!”

Soon, classmates began requesting copies of my notes, intrigued by their detail. I thought it would be a good idea to share them with the entire class, even including my professor to showcase my enthusiasm. However, after about a week of distributing my notes, I received a message from my professor, expressing appreciation for my dedication but noting that attendance had significantly decreased. She requested that I cease sharing my notes.

Years later, I encountered her again at a protest in Nashville in 2019. Guess what we discussed?

Delving into the Allegorical Layers of Oz …

One of the most fascinating insights I gained from that course was the political allegory embedded in L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz, specifically the original book rather than the film. This is a story I've shared many times, often in a lighthearted manner, but now I aim to convey its significance more thoughtfully.

The Historical Context: Reflections of 1896 …

Though The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was published in 1900, four years after the crucial presidential election between Bryan and McKinley in 1896, its themes resonate with the economic and social issues of the 1890s. Baum’s narrative connects with broader discussions, illustrating the persistent relevance of the challenges facing American society at the turn of the century.

This context enriches our understanding of the book, suggesting that while it doesn’t directly comment on the election, it captures the spirit of a transformative era.

Immerse yourself in Baum’s The Wizard of Oz and uncover a narrative that transcends mere fantasy. It is a concealed political allegory reflecting the tumultuous socio-political climate of late 19th-century America.

Join me on a quest to unveil the symbols and meanings within Oz, shedding light on political movements, monetary debates, and the essence of American society.

Unveiling the Wizard: The Bryan Connection …

To comprehend the Wizard’s identity, we must recognize him as William Jennings Bryan. Some may remember him as the attorney defending creationism in the Scopes Trial of 1925. Beyond his role as a lawyer, Bryan was a politician who ran against McKinley in 1896, representing a coalition of Democrats and the now-defunct Populist Party.

Bryan's actions during this critical election were pivotal in the dissolution of the Populist movement.

Bryan’s Legacy: Beyond the Courtroom …

William Jennings Bryan passed away from complications related to diabetes just days after the conclusion of the Scopes Trial. His declining health and the stress of the trial likely worsened his condition.

The courthouse lacked air conditioning, creating a challenging environment for Bryan, who was tasked with arguing against evolution while battling the heat. His significant role in the trial took a toll on his physical well-being.

After the trial, Bryan’s legacy continued to shape American culture and education, notably through the establishment of Bryan College in Dayton, Tennessee, in 1930, which was named in his honor, reflecting his commitment to education and Christian values.

Bryan’s Influence: A Midwestern Perspective …

Bryan's roots in Salem, Illinois, alongside the setting of The Wizard of Oz in Kansas, emphasize the cultural and political climate of the Midwest during his era. This region, known for its strong populist sentiments, serves as a backdrop for the themes of perseverance and the quest for justice.

The narrative of The Wizard of Oz aligns with Bryan’s Midwestern origins and populist ideals, advocating for the common person against oppressive forces.

The Yellow Brick Road: A Monetary Metaphor …

At the core of Baum's narrative lies a nuanced commentary on the political dynamics of the time. The Populist Party's struggle for the common people against the elite sets the stage for our analysis. Dorothy’s silver slippers on the yellow brick road symbolize the monetary policy debates of the late 19th century, particularly Bryan's advocacy for silver against McKinley’s gold standard.

Silver Slippers vs. Ruby Red: The Color of Economics …

You might be thinking, “But Dorothy wore ruby slippers?” and you would be right regarding the film adaptation. However, in the original book, she donned silver slippers. The choice of color in the film was influenced by the cost of technicolor, leading filmmakers to favor ruby red to captivate audiences.

Watching the film in conjunction with Dark Side of the Moon is an intriguing experience, especially when one hears the sound of a cash register at the first appearance of color. The band Pink Floyd attributes this to coincidence, but it adds another layer to the discussion.

Let’s maintain focus, shall we?

The imagery of silver slippers on a yellow brick road signifies Bryan’s push for the free coinage of silver, utilizing America’s abundant silver resources to empower everyday citizens against the restrictive gold standard.

North America was believed to hold approximately 50 percent of the world’s silver deposits, which fueled Bryan's advocacy for transitioning the U.S. dollar from the gold standard to a silver standard.

Not convinced yet? Consider how both gold and silver are measured in ounces or "oz." The emerald city? That represents wealth. The visual of Dorothy traversing a yellow brick road in silver slippers conveys the message that silver is superior to gold for America’s currency.

The Emerald City of Oz: A Reflection on Wealth and Illusion …

The Emerald City, with its deceptive aura of wealth, mirrors the economic policies and illusions that dominated Baum’s era. This portrayal captures the complexities of the American dream and the obstacles faced in its pursuit amid inequality and deception.

Characters as Social Commentary …

Each character in The Wizard of Oz symbolizes a facet of American society grappling with distinct challenges.

The Scarecrow: Symbol of Agrarian Wisdom …

The Scarecrow signifies the undervalued agricultural knowledge during economic adversity and embodies the American farmer of the early 1900s. His quest for intelligence reflects the aspirations of the Populist movement. His evolution from self-doubt to self-recognition emphasizes Baum’s call for empowerment for rural and working communities, urging readers to reconsider true intelligence and societal contributions.

The Tin Man: Heart of the Workforce …

The Tin Man represents industrial workers and the burgeoning union movement advocating for their rights and dignity. His perceived lack of a heart illustrates how these workers were often viewed as mere machines, with unionization efforts aimed at restoring their humanity in a rapidly evolving labor landscape.

The Cowardly Lion: A Quest for Courage in Leadership …

The Lion's quest for bravery is crucial to his character, signifying the necessity for bold leadership. During his time, the government faced criticism for its inability to address pressing issues such as economic inequality and labor rights. As the king of the animals, the Lion's struggle for courage reflects the perceived shortcomings of leaders who failed to confront pressing societal challenges.

The Witches, Monkeys, and Munchkins: Manifestations of Control …

In Oz, the defeat of the Wicked Witch of the East signifies the collapse of Eastern financial dominance. These oppressive forces burdened farmers and workers alike, symbolizing a struggle for liberation from economic oppression.

The Wicked Witch of the West embodies the formidable challenges faced by agricultural and working classes in the West. Her defeat symbolizes hope and resilience against the daunting economic and environmental adversities of the time.

Glinda, the Good Witch of the South, represents society’s moral compass, embodying the qualities desired in a leader. Her role as a guiding figure for Dorothy symbolizes the best of humanity, offering wisdom amid challenges.

The Munchkins represent marginalized groups, including women and African Americans, who sought a voice in society. Although African Americans gained voting rights through the 15th Amendment in 1870, many were disenfranchised through Jim Crow laws. In contrast, Dorothy symbolizes those with voting rights, empowered to choose their path.

The flying monkeys, bound to serve the Wicked Witch, parallel the railroads of Baum’s America. Controlled by a few, these iron pathways impacted many, mirroring the witch's command over her minions. Their liberation represents a collective yearning for economic freedom, resonating with the broader struggle against monopolistic forces.

A Political Warning: The Cross of Gold …

During the 1896 election, candidates traveled extensively to address the public, but Bryan’s campaign was unprecedented in its scale. His “whistle-stop” tours allowed him to connect directly with voters across the nation, advocating for the free coinage of silver and other populist policies. This direct approach transformed American political campaigning.

However, Bryan's fervor for the silver standard led to significant missteps, particularly alienating a crucial voting bloc: Catholics. His famous “Cross of Gold” speech, delivered with dramatic flair, left a lasting impression on his audience but also highlighted the religious tensions of the time.

Despite his Christian convictions, many Catholics perceived him as insufficiently aligned with their values, leading to a shift in support away from the Populist coalition toward McKinley.

Digital Disruption: The New Era of Political Realignment …

Political realignment in the United States has historically followed a thirty-year cycle, marked by significant shifts in party dominance and ideology. The 1896 election exemplifies how socio-economic factors can reshape the political landscape.

Modern political identity illustrates the complexities of this realignment process. The juxtaposition of historical symbols with contemporary actions underscores the fluidity of political allegiances.

In the Digital Age, we find ourselves on the brink of a transformation in political dynamics. Social media has accelerated the exchange of ideas and mobilization of movements, challenging traditional patterns of realignment. This new landscape allows for rapid shifts in public opinion and political identity, reflecting the immediate influence of digital discourse.

Exploring L. Frank Baum’s Political Leanings …

Baum openly supported McKinley during the 1896 election and later penned a poem in his memory after McKinley’s assassination. As a children’s author and former political reporter, Baum’s beliefs were somewhat ambiguous, though he did advocate for women's suffrage.

Later in his career, he expressed a desire to infuse contemporary themes into his stories for children.

A Journey Through America’s Political Soul …

The Wizard of Oz is not just a tale; it serves as a political allegory urging us to reflect on our society and strive for change. Through its characters and symbols, Baum’s work imparts lessons that remain relevant. Ultimately, it encapsulates the American dream.

The U.S. may no longer adhere to the gold standard but operates on a flat currency, reliant on public trust in the government. How is the economy treating you?

Let us draw inspiration from Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion as we seek justice and representation. By understanding the forces that shaped Oz, we can better navigate today’s political landscape. Through the lens of The Wizard of Oz, we can uncover ways to forge a brighter future for all.

Engaging the Future: Oz Reimagined …

If The Wizard of Oz were to be remade today, reflecting our current political climate, how might it appear? I invite you to share your thoughts in the comments!

Thank you for reading.