Reference no: EM133081067

Discussion Questions

EC457/857

Agrarian Unrest and Revolt

1. The last third of the 19th century was one of agrarian unrest. One of the first organizations was known as The Grange or Patrons of Husbandry. Describe this organization, how they viewed the role of the farmer in American life. Were they political or non-partisan? Explain.

2. The Farmers Alliance was another organization concerned with addressing issues of farmers. Where did they begin, who were their members, and were they political? What policies did they
push?

3. The Populist Movement grew out of the Farmers Alliances in the 1890s and populists eventually formed their own political party. How did they feel about the free market and laissez-
faire? What was their view on monopolies?

4. What populist was famous for telling farmers that they should "Raise less corn and more hell?" What policies did the populist platform call for?

5. Describe the Non-Partisan Leagues. What were they upset about and what policies did they
advocate for as a result.

6. What specifically were the 3 primary alleged economic grievances that farmers had in the last third of the 19th century? (Mayhew)

7. What does the evidence on these grievances say about their validity? (Mayhew)

8. What does Mayhew argue best explains the unrest of the late 19th century? (Mayhew)