Agriculture and the Great Depression: The Rural Crisis of the 1930s in Europe and the Americas

The agricultural sector played a significant role in the economic crash of 1929, with falling prices, industrial production, unemployment, and stagnation of aggregate demand. This edited volume explores short-, medium-, and long-term perspectives on the primary sector, framing the interwar period as a pivotal turning point in the decline of subsistence agriculture and the growth of agricultural subsidies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The agricultural sector played a significant role in the economic crash of 1929, with far-reaching consequences that reverberated across the globe. In this edited volume, scholars from various countries across Europe and the Americas delve into the short-, medium-, and long-term perspectives of the primary sector, shedding light on the intricate dynamics that contributed to the crash.

The monograph brings together a diverse panel of contributors, each with their unique insights and expertise. These experts examine a range of issues, including falling prices, industrial production, unemployment, and the stagnation of aggregate demand. By examining these factors, the contributors frame the interwar period as a pivotal turning point in the decline of subsistence agriculture and the growth of agricultural subsidies.

These subsidies continue to be a key policy tool in many economies today, as governments seek to support farmers and ensure food security. The book explores the historical roots of these subsidies, tracing their development from the early 20th century to the present day. It also examines the impact of these subsidies on agricultural production, rural communities, and the broader economy.

One of the key themes of the book is the relationship between agriculture and industrialization. The contributors argue that the growth of industrial production and urbanization led to a decline in the demand for agricultural products, which in turn contributed to the economic downturn of 1929. They also explore the ways in which agricultural policies and practices have adapted to the changing economic landscape, with a particular focus on the role of government intervention and regulation.

Another important theme of the book is the impact of the crash on rural communities. The contributors examine the ways in which farmers and rural workers were affected by the economic downturn, including the loss of land, the decline in prices, and the increased difficulty of finding employment. They also explore the social and cultural consequences of the crash, including the rise of rural populism and the decline of traditional rural values.

The book also examines the long-term consequences of the 1929 crash on the global economy. The contributors argue that the crash led to a shift in economic power towards the United States and other industrialized countries, while also contributing to the emergence of new economic ideologies and policies. They also explore the ways in which the crash influenced the development of international trade and the global financial system.

In conclusion, the agricultural sector played a significant role in the economic crash of 1929, with far-reaching consequences that continue to be felt today. This edited volume provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary examination of the primary sector, shedding light on the complex relationships between agriculture, industry, and the broader economy. It will be of interest to advanced students and researchers in economic history, agricultural history, globalization, and economic development.

Weight: 700g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367615505