In 3–5 sentences, explain how developments both outside of Texas and inside the state encouraged Texas farmers to rapidly increase the amount of cotton that they grew from 1860 to 1900.(4 points)

Answer 1

During the period from 1860 to 1900, several developments both outside of Texas and within the state encouraged farmers to rapidly increase cotton production. Firstly, the invention of the cotton gin by Eli Whitney in 1793 made it easier and more efficient for farmers to process cotton, leading to increased demand. Secondly, the industrialization of the textile industry in the United States and Europe created a growing market for cotton goods. This demand, coupled with the fertile soils and favorable climate in Texas, attracted many farmers to start cultivating cotton on a large scale. Additionally, the expansion of railroads in Texas made it easier to transport cotton to markets, facilitating its growth as a cash crop.