Money: Speech of Hon. John P. Jones, of Nevada, on the Free Coinage of Silver; in the United States Senate, May 12 and 13, 1890

The listener will hear a stirring 1890 Senate address where a western senator argues for the free and unlimited coinage of silver. He frames the monetary question as the most pressing issue since the Constitution, linking it to the everyday lives of citizens across the nation. The speech opens with a striking contrast between gold’s clarity and silver’s historic value, setting the stage for a passionate economic debate.

Jones paints a vivid picture of America’s booming agriculture, industry, and mineral wealth, citing staggering harvests, coal production, and the bounty of gold and silver mines. He warns that the demonetization act of 1873 has left the country vulnerable, and he urges Congress to adopt measures that would stabilize prices and relieve struggling farmers. Throughout, his rhetoric blends patriotic pride with practical concerns, offering listeners a window into the fervent policy discussions that shaped the nation’s financial future.