Granger Movement

Definition

The Granger Movement was an organized response by farmers in the late 19th century to combat the monopolistic practices of railroad companies and grain elevator operators. The movement aimed to promote cooperative buying and selling, advocate for regulatory reforms, and empower farmers politically. It played a significant role in shaping public policies, particularly leading to the establishment of laws like the Interstate Commerce Act.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Granger Movement began in the 1860s with the formation of the National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, focusing on educational and social activities for farmers.
2. Members of the Granger Movement advocated for state laws regulating railroad rates and grain elevator fees, leading to various legislative successes in several states.
3. The movement was instrumental in highlighting issues of price discrimination and unfair practices that favored large corporations over small farmers.
4. The Granger Movement eventually laid the groundwork for future agrarian reform movements and influenced the development of the Populist Party in the 1890s.
5. Despite its decline in the early 20th century, the Granger Movement's impact on agricultural policy and cooperatives can still be seen today.

Review Questions

• How did the Granger Movement influence state regulations regarding railroads and grain elevators?
  • The Granger Movement significantly influenced state regulations by advocating for laws that aimed to curb monopolistic practices by railroads and grain elevator operators. Through grassroots organizing and political pressure, Grangers successfully pushed for legislation that established maximum rates for shipping goods, which helped protect farmers from exploitative pricing. This activism not only led to immediate reforms but also set a precedent for federal regulation through later legislation like the Interstate Commerce Act.
• Evaluate the lasting impacts of the Granger Movement on American agriculture and politics during the late 19th century.
  • The lasting impacts of the Granger Movement on American agriculture included greater awareness of economic injustices faced by farmers and the promotion of cooperative models to enhance their bargaining power. Politically, it contributed to the rise of populism, as it united diverse farming communities in a collective struggle against corporate monopolies. The movement also inspired future agrarian movements and laid a foundation for legislative reforms aimed at improving conditions for rural Americans.
• Synthesize how the principles of cooperation promoted by the Granger Movement have evolved in modern agricultural practices.
  • The principles of cooperation championed by the Granger Movement have evolved into contemporary agricultural practices through modern cooperatives that facilitate collective marketing and purchasing among farmers. These organizations continue to empower small-scale producers by giving them a stronger voice in market negotiations, akin to what the Grangers sought in their time. Furthermore, today's agricultural cooperatives emphasize sustainable practices and fair trade, reflecting a broader understanding of community-driven economic models that address both local needs and global challenges.

Related terms

Populism: A political approach that seeks to represent the interests of ordinary people, often against the elite or establishment, significantly influenced by the Granger Movement.

Cooperatives: Organizations owned and operated by a group of individuals for their mutual benefit, which were promoted by the Granger Movement to help farmers secure better prices and reduce costs.

Interstate Commerce Commission:

A regulatory agency established by the Interstate Commerce Act to oversee railroad rates and practices, partly as a result of the Granger Movement's efforts.