This activity is appropriate for Social Studies and ELA classes, and as a cooperative learning or individual activity. Students will examine excerpts from 4 speeches (Bernie Sanders, Donald Trump, Mary Elizabeth Lease, and William Jennings Bryan). Using 4 different color highlighters or pens, students will highlight examples of Blame, Optimism, Nationalism, and Populist Rhetoric (all 4 are defined in student-friendly language). This is followed with a series of critical thinking questions, a closure activity, and a follow-up activity. All directions are included on the first page.