William Jennings Bryan was born in 1860 in Salem, IL, and was educated in the state before entering the legal profession. He moved to Lincoln in 1887 to continue his legal career and enter the political arena.

Bryan was a major contributor to the American political scene, being a three-time Presidential candidate and Secretary of State.

He was passionate about the "free silver" issue and delivered his stirring "Cross of Gold" speech at the 1896 Democratic Convention.