A Level History - America - Practice Exam

What was the impact of the mechanization of agriculture?

1. It promoted traditional farming methods

2. It diminished the labor force requirements

3. It ensured complete independence from loans

4. It increased reliance on hand tools

The correct answer is: It diminished the labor force requirements

The impact of the mechanization of agriculture fundamentally transformed farming practices, and one of the most significant effects was the diminishing of labor force requirements. With the introduction of machinery such as tractors, combine harvesters, and plows, farmers were able to increase efficiency and productivity while reducing the number of manual laborers needed on farms. This shift meant that fewer workers were required to cultivate and manage large expanses of land, leading to a consolidation of farming operations and a decline in rural labor employment. The advancements in agricultural technology enabled farmers to accomplish tasks in a fraction of the time it previously took when relying on manual labor. Consequently, this reduction in needed labor led to significant social and economic changes, as many former agricultural workers moved to urban areas in search of new employment opportunities in industries and services. This transformation is a key element in understanding the agricultural revolution and its broader implications for American society and the economy.