What economic condition adversely affected farmers in the late 19th century?

The late 19th century was a challenging time for farmers in Georgia and across the United States, as many faced rising costs associated with supplies essential for farming. This period was marked by several economic hardships. Prices for tools, seeds, fertilizer, and other necessary inputs were increasing, which significantly reduced the profit margins for farmers. As their expenses grew, it became increasingly difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods.

While it could be argued that factors such as lower demand for products also affected farmers, the soaring costs of supplies directly impacted their operational capabilities. Farmers were often in debt, and these rising costs exacerbated their financial woes, leading to many losing their farms or being pushed into deeper financial distress. Increased labor availability did not necessarily benefit farmers in the same way, as cheap labor could mean lower income for them rather than increased productivity. Additionally, expanding markets overseas tended to serve larger agricultural businesses and those equipped to handle exports, rather than the small local farmers who experienced the brunt of these rising costs.