Untitled Flashcards Set

What was the impact of the mechanization of agriculture during 1865-1898?

Mechanization increased crop production and allowed farmers to produce more, but small farmers struggled to compete, leading to bankruptcies as larger farms dominated.

What were the economic effects of the increased supply of crops due to mechanization?

An oversupply of crops caused a drop in prices, harming small farmers who relied on selling crops for income.

Why were farmers struggling with high prices for manufactured goods?

Farmers faced high prices for necessary manufactured goods controlled by industrial trusts, adding to their economic struggles.

What problems did farmers face with railroads during this period?

Farmers faced high shipping costs from railroads, worsening their financial struggles.

What was the National Grange Movement, and what did it aim to achieve?

Founded in 1868, it aimed to provide support to farmers and became political, advocating for laws to regulate railroad rates and close corporate practices.

What were the Granger Laws, and what was their significance?

The Granger Laws regulated railroad rates and combat unfair practices; the Commerce Act of 1886 established the ICC for enforcing fair rates.

How did the federal government support westward expansion via railroads?

The Pacific Railroads Acts provided land to railroad companies, facilitating the construction of the transcontinental railroad completed in 1869.

What was the Homestead Act of 1862, and how did it encourage westward migration?

The Homestead Act offered 160 acres of free land to settlers, encouraging migration, though many faced hardships that led to bankruptcy.

How did the discovery of gold and silver affect migration to the West?

Discoveries led to mass migrations and the creation of boomtowns as settlers flocked to areas like Pike’s Peak in search of fortune.

What role did the diversity of boomtowns play in the growth of the West?

Boomtowns attracted diverse populations, including immigrants, contributing to the multicultural development of the Western U.S.