Grange Movement

Definition

The Grange Movement, officially known as the Patrons of Husbandry, was an organized effort in the late 19th century aimed at advancing the social and economic interests of farmers in the United States. It emerged during a time of rapid industrialization and westward expansion, seeking to provide a support network for farmers, improve their conditions, and advocate for reforms in agricultural practices and transportation costs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Grange Movement was founded in 1867 by Oliver Hudson Kelley as a way to connect farmers and promote their interests.
2. One of the primary goals of the Grange was to reduce the high costs associated with shipping agricultural products, which were often controlled by monopolistic railroad companies.
3. The movement emphasized education for farmers, offering courses on topics such as crop management, livestock care, and community organization.
4. Grange members organized cooperatives to purchase supplies collectively, thereby lowering costs and increasing their bargaining power against larger companies.
5. The Grange played a crucial role in influencing state legislation related to agricultural practices, leading to important reforms like price regulations on railroads.

Review Questions

• How did the Grange Movement address the economic challenges faced by farmers during its emergence?
  • The Grange Movement tackled economic challenges by organizing farmers into a cooperative network that aimed to reduce costs associated with transportation and purchasing supplies. It sought to combat monopolistic practices of railroad companies that charged high rates for shipping goods. By establishing cooperatives, Grange members could buy supplies in bulk at lower prices, allowing them to improve their economic conditions while advocating for reforms to ensure fair treatment in transportation costs.
• Evaluate the impact of the Grange Movement on subsequent political movements and legislation concerning farmers' rights.
  • The Grange Movement significantly influenced later political movements such as Populism and led to substantial changes in legislation aimed at protecting farmers' rights. Its advocacy for fair pricing and regulation of railroads paved the way for laws like the Interstate Commerce Act. The emphasis on collective action among farmers inspired subsequent alliances that further pushed for reforms in agriculture and broader economic justice, forming a foundation for the Populist Party's agenda.
• Analyze how the Grange Movement reflected broader social changes during westward expansion and industrialization in the United States.
  • The Grange Movement reflected broader social changes by highlighting the struggles of rural communities amidst rapid industrialization and westward expansion. As many farmers faced exploitation from powerful railroad companies and changing economic landscapes, the movement served as a response to these pressures, promoting solidarity among agricultural workers. It also illustrated the shift towards organized collective action among those who felt marginalized in an increasingly industrialized society, ultimately setting the stage for future movements focused on labor rights and social justice.

Related terms

Populism:

A political movement that emerged in the late 19th century advocating for the rights and power of the common people, especially farmers, against the elites and established interests.

Interstate Commerce Act: A federal law passed in 1887 that aimed to regulate railroad rates and practices to ensure fair pricing for farmers and shippers.

Farmers' Alliance: A coalition of farmers in the late 19th century that sought to address economic issues through cooperative buying and selling, ultimately leading to the formation of the Populist Party.