McKinley-Hobart Campaign Button, 1896

In 1896, America was still reeling from a depression that began in 1893 during the previous Democratic administration. The Republican Party promised a return to prosperity and nominated William McKinley for president. Thousands visited the nominee at his home in Canton, Ohio, where he delivered his campaign speeches. Voters approved and sent McKinley and his running mate, Garret Hobart, to Washington.