Ancient history

What did migrant workers in the 1930s harvest?

During the 1930s, migrant workers primarily worked in agriculture and harvested a wide variety of crops depending on the region and season. Some of the main crops harvested by migrant workers included:

1. Cotton: Cotton was a major crop in the southern United States, particularly in states such as Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama. Migrant workers, often referred to as "cotton pickers," would move from region to region following the cotton harvest.

2. Fruits and Vegetables: Migrant workers also played a significant role in harvesting fruits and vegetables in different parts of the country. The West Coast, including California, was a hub for migrant farmworkers who harvested crops like grapes, strawberries, tomatoes, lettuce, and citrus fruits.

3. Grapes: California was known for its grape production, and migrant workers were essential in harvesting grapes for winemaking and consumption.

4. Sugar Beets: Migrant workers harvested sugar beets in regions such as the Midwest, particularly in states like Michigan, Minnesota, and North Dakota.

5. Potatoes: Potato harvesting was a major activity for migrant workers in states such as Idaho, Maine, and Washington.

6. Wheat and Grains: In the Great Plains region, migrant workers harvested wheat, corn, and other grains.

7. Hops: Hops are used in beer production, and migrant workers contributed to the harvest in regions such as the Pacific Northwest.

It's important to note that migrant workers faced harsh working conditions, low wages, and discrimination during this period, and their contributions to the agricultural industry were often underappreciated.