Fusion in North Carolina around 1894 involved which alliance?

• A. A coalition of Republican and Populist leaders to support one another
• B. White supremacist groups forming a coalition
• C. Black and white reformers supporting a united governor's race
• D. A labor-rights coalition

Answer: (A)

Fusion in North Carolina around 1894 was the deliberate alliance between Republican and Populist leaders to run a single, united slate against the Democratic establishment. Populists drew support from farmers and laborers and saw an opportunity to gain real political power by teaming up with Republicans, pooling votes and resources to win offices, including the governor. This cross-party cooperation aimed to challenge one-party rule and enact reforms favored by both groups. While Black voters and reform-minded individuals were part of the broader reform era, the defining move of fusion was the joint Republican–Populist effort to present a united front.