The introduction of cottonseed oil and the invention of oleomargarine changed the demand for cotton by creating additional uses for cotton crops. Cottonseed oil became a valuable commodity used in cooking, so its increased demand led to a higher demand for cotton to produce more cottonseed. Similarly, oleomargarine, made partially from cottonseed oil, became a substitute for butter. As oleomargarine gained popularity as a cheaper alternative, the demand for cottonseed oil to produce it also increased, resulting in a higher demand for cotton.
shorter
Cottonseed oil and oleomargarine increased the demand for cotton by creating new uses for cotton crops. Cottonseed oil became popular for cooking, while oleomargarine became a substitute for butter. As the demand for these products grew, so did the demand for cotton to produce them.
