The period from 1860 to 1900 was marked by significant changes that encouraged Texas farmers to rapidly increase cotton production. These changes can be grouped into developments both within the state and at the national level.
Developments Outside of Texas:
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Industrial Revolution and Rising Demand: The Industrial Revolution in the United States and Europe led to a booming textile industry, which in turn created an unprecedented demand for cotton. Manufacturers sought consistent, low-cost supplies, driving up prices and encouraging Southern states, including Texas, to produce more cotton.
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Transportation Advances: The expansion of railroads in the late 19th century made it easier and cheaper to transport cotton to markets. Railroads connected rural Texas with major cities and ports, facilitating the movement of cotton to factories and export locations. This encouraged farmers to increase production as they could more easily send their crops to market.
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Global Market Expansion: The international demand for cotton increased during this time due to the increasing industrialization of other countries, particularly in Europe and Japan. This global demand for raw cotton made it more profitable for Texas farmers to grow cotton.
Developments Inside Texas:
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Post-Civil War Economic Rebuilding: After the Civil War, Texas farmers were encouraged to shift their focus to cash crops, particularly cotton, as they sought to rebuild their lives and make a profit. Cotton became a key element in this economic recovery, leading to a dramatic increase in acreage dedicated to its cultivation.
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Improvement in Agricultural Techniques: Advances in agricultural technology, such as the invention of new plowing methods and the increased use of fertilizers, helped Texas farmers improve their yields. Additionally, the introduction of better cotton varieties that were more resistant to pests and drought was instrumental in boosting production.
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Land Availability: Following the Civil War, there was ample land available for farming in Texas, including land previously worked by enslaved individuals. Many new farmers arrived in Texas, drawn by the availability of land and the potential for profit from cotton farming, leading to significant increases in planted acreage.
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Supportive State Policies: The Texas government promoted agriculture, especially cotton farming, through various measures, including land grants and support for infrastructure improvements. Policies aimed at promoting cotton cultivation helped facilitate its rapid expansion.
Conclusion:
The combination of rising national and global demand for cotton, advances in transportation, agricultural technology, and land availability collectively fueled the rapid increase in cotton production in Texas from 1860 to 1900. Farmers responded to these external and internal circumstances, transforming Texas into a leading cotton-producing state by the turn of the century.
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