Which candidates competed in the presidential election of 1900?

The candidates who competed in the presidential election of 1900 were indeed William McKinley and William Jennings Bryan. McKinley was the incumbent president, having been elected in 1896, and he campaigned on a platform of prosperity and the benefits of the recent Spanish-American War, which had boosted national pride and imperial interests. William Jennings Bryan, known for his populist views and his famous "Cross of Gold" speech from the previous election, represented a coalition of farmers and laborers who were still struggling with economic issues, particularly those related to the gold standard and monetary policies.

This election not only highlighted the ideological divide between the parties but also marked a continuation of McKinley’s policies aimed at expanding America's global influence and promoting industrial growth. It resulted in a solid victory for McKinley, reinforcing the trend of the United States moving towards more significant involvement on the world stage during this period. Understanding this election is crucial for grasping the political landscape of the United States in the early 20th century, as it set the stage for future expansion and domestic policies.