Farmers Movement

Definition

The Farmers Movement was a collective effort by agrarian workers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries seeking to address the economic struggles faced by farmers in the United States. This movement was characterized by the formation of organizations and political parties that aimed to reform agricultural practices, address issues like railroads monopolies, and advocate for more favorable economic conditions, connecting deeply with the broader trends of Westward Expansion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Farmers Movement gained momentum during the economic hardships faced by farmers due to low crop prices and high debts following the Civil War.
2. Key events included the establishment of organizations like the National Farmers' Alliance, which sought collective bargaining for better prices and conditions.
3. The movement was instrumental in bringing about political changes, such as the rise of the Populist Party in the 1890s, which championed farmer rights and reforms.
4. Farmers advocated for policies like government regulation of railroads to combat unfair practices and exorbitant shipping costs.
5. The Farmers Movement ultimately laid groundwork for future agricultural reforms and influenced later movements focused on rural issues.

Review Questions

• How did the Farmers Movement respond to economic challenges faced by agrarian workers during its time?
  • The Farmers Movement arose in response to significant economic challenges, including low prices for crops, high levels of debt, and exploitative practices by railroads. Farmers organized themselves into groups like the Grange Movement to address these issues collectively. By advocating for reforms such as better prices through cooperative marketing and lobbying for government regulation of railroads, they aimed to improve their economic situation and protect their livelihoods.
• Evaluate the impact of the Grange Movement on the broader Farmers Movement in terms of political engagement and reform efforts.
  • The Grange Movement played a crucial role in energizing the broader Farmers Movement by providing a platform for social interaction, education, and political advocacy among farmers. It helped establish local chapters that organized grassroots efforts to push for legislative reforms at both state and national levels. The Grange's influence led to increased awareness of farmers' issues and directly contributed to the formation of more structured movements like the Populist Party, which sought comprehensive reforms tailored to agrarian needs.
• Assess how the goals of the Farmers Movement reflected larger societal changes during Westward Expansion and what lasting effects it had on American politics.
  • The goals of the Farmers Movement were closely tied to the larger societal changes brought about by Westward Expansion, as many settlers moved west in search of land and opportunity. As farmers faced unique challenges in newly settled territories, they sought reforms that addressed their specific needs, such as equitable pricing and infrastructure support. The movement's emphasis on collective action and political engagement not only shaped policies that affected rural America but also contributed significantly to the emergence of populist sentiments that have continued to influence American politics into the present day.

Related terms

Populism:

A political ideology that emerged in the late 19th century, advocating for the rights and power of ordinary people, especially farmers, against elites and established interests.

Grange Movement:

An organization founded in 1867 to advance farmers' interests through education, social activities, and political advocacy, playing a key role in the Farmers Movement.

Greenback Party:

A political party formed in the late 19th century that sought to increase the money supply and support inflationary policies to help indebted farmers.