According to the Populist Party, what is the purpose of government? to exercise limited power and enforce only laws that advance the cause of liberty with minimal government interference
to protect the rights of the weak against the power of the strong through active redistribution of wealth from rich individuals to poor individuals
to seize control of private corporations and establish a fully socialist economy
to expand its power to shift utilities for the public good to public ownership and regulate private corporations to reduce oppression and poverty

b) to protect the rights of the weak against the power of the strong through active redistribution of wealth from rich individuals to poor individuals

Explanation:

Let me know if I am wrong, but I am pretty sure the answer is b.

one of the main reasons was definitely slavery. back in 1861, republican abraham lincoln was elected and ended up being a major influence in the slavery business. slavery greatly affected the texas economy because back in 1845 during the annexation of texas, slaves became a big part of the texas population. many texans that were in favor of the secession influenced groups through party ties.