1. Mechanization: The war accelerated the adoption of mechanized farm machinery, such as tractors, combines, and milking machines. This helped to increase agricultural productivity and reduce the need for manual labor.
2. Consolidation: Many small farms were consolidated into larger, more efficient operations. This trend was driven in part by the increased use of machinery and the need for economies of scale.
3. Specialization: Farmers increasingly specialized in particular crops or livestock, rather than producing a wide variety of products. This allowed them to take advantage of economies of scale and to develop expertise in specific areas.
4. Scientific Advances: There was a growing emphasis on scientific research and education in agriculture. This led to the development of new crop varieties, fertilizers, and pest control methods, which further increased agricultural productivity.
5. Government Support: Governments played an increasingly active role in supporting agriculture through subsidies, price supports, and other policies. This helped to stabilize farm incomes and reduce the risks associated with farming.
These trends transformed agriculture in the decades following World War I and laid the foundation for the modern industrialized farming system.