Political Power: Farmers felt like they lacked sufficient political power to have their voices heard on issues such as regulation of railroads and grain elevators, and securing favorable agricultural policies from the government.
Economic Challenges: Farmers wanted to address economic issues such as rising costs for supplies and transportation, as well as low and fluctuating prices for their crops.
Educational and Social Activities: Farmers' organizations provided educational opportunities and social activities for members, including lectures on agricultural practices, community events, and lobbying efforts.
**Specific Examples of Farmer's Organizations:
The Grunge (National Grunge of the Patrons of Husbandry): Formed in 1867, the Grunge focused on cooperative buying, marketing, and political activism to improve the economic and social conditions of farmers. It played a crucial role in the agricultural reform movements of the late 19th century.
Farmers' Alliances: The National Farmers' Alliance and the National Farmers' Alliance and Industrial Union were two prominent farmer organizations in the late 19th century. They advocated for government regulations to control railroad and grain elevator monopolies and sought to establish farmers' cooperatives to increase bargaining power.
Reasons for Farmers' Frustration:
Railroads and Grain Elevators: Farmers were at the mercy of railroad companies for transporting their crops to markets, and grain elevator operators often charged high fees for storing and handling grain.
Low Crop Prices: Overproduction and increased competition from other countries lead to low crop prices, making it difficult for farmers to make a living.
High Tariffs: Farmers were burdened by high tariffs on the industrial goods they needed, which increased their costs of living.
Political Domination by Other Interests: Farmers felt that their needs and concerns were being ignored in favor of the interests of more powerful business and industrial groups.