What term describes the economic and political actions taken by farmers' alliances to address their challenges?

The correct term that describes the economic and political actions taken by farmers' alliances to address their challenges is Populism. This movement emerged in the late 19th century as a response to the difficulties faced by farmers, including falling crop prices, high railroad rates, and a lack of political representation. Populism sought to unite various farming groups and advocate for reforms that would benefit the agrarian community.

Farmers' alliances organized to push for changes such as the regulation of railroads, the establishment of a graduated income tax, and the free coinage of silver to increase the money supply. These initiatives were aimed at empowering farmers and addressing their grievances against big business interests and financial institutions, all characteristic of the broader Populist movement.

Collectivism refers more broadly to the practice or principle of prioritizing the group over the individual, often associated with socialist ideologies, while cooperativism focuses specifically on cooperative businesses and mutual aid among members rather than the broader political mobilization seen in Populism. Federalism describes the division of power between national and state governments, which is not directly related to the specific actions taken by farmers' alliances.