Which group was most actively campaigning to increase the money supply between 1865 and 1895?

Between 1865 and 1895, the movement to increase the money supply was primarily driven by farmers and debtors. This period was characterized by significant economic challenges, particularly for those in agricultural sectors who were often in debt. Farmers faced falling prices for their crops, which made it increasingly difficult to repay loans. They believed that increasing the money supply would lead to inflation, thereby raising the prices of their goods and easing their debt burdens.

This group actively campaigned for policies such as the free coinage of silver, which would have the effect of increasing the amount of currency in circulation. Organizations like the Grange and the Populist Party were established during this time to advocate for farmers' interests, including calls for bimetallism (the use of both gold and silver to back currency) as a means to expand the money supply.

On the other hand, industrialists, bankers, and financiers typically favored a more restrictive monetary policy as it helped to maintain low inflation and stabilize prices, which benefited their interests and profits. Thus, while various groups were involved in the economic discourse of the time, it was primarily farmers and debtors who campaigned most actively for an increase in the money supply.