Describe the impact of the boll weevil and drought on agriculture in Georgia.
The boll weevil and drought had significant and devastating impacts on agriculture in Georgia.
The boll weevil, a small beetle that feeds on cotton buds and flowers, first appeared in the southeastern United States in the early 20th century. It quickly spread to Georgia, wreaking havoc on the state's cotton crops. The boll weevil caused widespread destruction, leading to significant financial losses for cotton farmers in Georgia. Many farmers were forced to abandon cotton cultivation altogether or switch to other crops in order to survive.
In addition to the boll weevil infestation, Georgia also experienced severe droughts during this time period. This lack of rainfall further exacerbated the challenges faced by farmers, leading to poor crop yields and even more financial hardship. The combination of the boll weevil and drought created a perfect storm of agricultural disaster in Georgia, with many farmers struggling to survive.
Overall, the boll weevil and drought had a lasting impact on agriculture in Georgia, changing the landscape of the industry and forcing many farmers to adapt and find new ways to make a living. These challenges highlighted the vulnerability of the state's agricultural sector and the importance of diversifying crops and implementing pest control measures to mitigate the impact of future threats.