Final answer:
William Jennings Bryan appealed to Populists because of his support for the silver standard and the subtreasury system, as well as his understanding of the farmers' plight.
Step-by-step explanation:
As a presidential candidate, William Jennings Bryan was appealing to Populists because of his support for the silver standard and the subtreasury system. The Populists greatly supported Bryan because he came from farm country, understood the farmers' plight, and advocated for their interests. Bryan's views aligned with the Populist platform, making him an attractive candidate for the Populists and securing their support in the 1896 presidential election.