Oversized 1896 Democratic Election Banner for William J. Bryan & Sewall

Oversized 1896 Democratic Election Banner for William J. Bryan & Sewall A large flag or banner promoting William Jennings Bryan and his running mate Arthur Sewall in the election of 1896. Measuring 21.5" x 27.5", N.p., ca. 1896. Printed on linen, with two large portraits of Bryan and Sewall surrounded by patriotic imagery. Matted and framed to the overall size of 28" x 34". The banner has an area of pulled threads at the top margin and there is a hole to the right of Bryan's head. Staining, wear, soiling, etc. throughout. Please refer to the photographs for further information. Still retains bright colors. Overall very good. The 1896 presidential election pitted former Governor William McKinley, the Republican nominee, against the Democratic nominee, William Jennings Bryan. An attorney and former congressman, Bryan galvanized support with his Cross of Gold speech, which called for reform of the monetary system and attacked business leaders as the cause of ongoing economic depression and gained him support from both the Democratic and Populist parties. For the Democratic ticket, Arthur Sewall, a wealthy shipbuilder from Maine, was eventually chosen as the vice-presidential nominee. However, to demonstrate that they were independent from the Democrats, the Populists chose former Georgia Representative Thomas E. Watson as their vice-presidential candidate. The election was a close race, but when the polls closed, William McKinley was victorious in his bid for the presidency. Bryan would run again in 1900 and 1908 but lost both elections as well. This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses. WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE! Rare Autographs, Manuscripts, Books & Sports Memorabilia November 29, 2023 10:30 AM EST Wilton