All of these parties were organized for the first time in 1874 and disappeared shortly thereafter, their members subsequently becoming Democrats, Greenbackers, or independents.

The three-sided tensions between Democrats, Republicans and reformers led to frequent turmoil during the session, including a violent brawl that erupted in the House when Republican Alfred M. Jones threw a book at Democrat Lewis Plater.

[5] Democrat Archibald A. Glenn was elected president of the Senate, thereby also taking on the role of acting lieutenant governor.

[6] The Senate of the 29th General Assembly consisted of 24 Republicans, 18 Democrats, and 9 third-party and independent members.

However, only 152 members were present for the 29th General Assembly, as Robert Thiem of Cook County failed to make an appearance.