What was a major factor that led farmers to form the Farmers' Alliance in the 1870s?

Farmers in the 1870s faced significant economic challenges, primarily due to falling crop prices and high levels of debt. The decline in agricultural prices made it increasingly difficult for them to pay off loans and sustain their livelihoods. Many farmers were caught in a cycle of borrowing to pay for seeds, equipment, and land, only to find that their produce could not cover their expenses. This economic hardship created a sense of urgency among farmers to band together for mutual support.

The Farmers' Alliance emerged as a collective response to these difficulties, aiming to address issues such as access to credit, fair pricing, and the need for better transportation systems. By organizing, farmers sought to increase their bargaining power and influence over political and economic decisions that directly affected their livelihoods. The economic strain faced by farmers, characterized by debt and a struggling agricultural economy, was undoubtedly a critical factor in the formation of the Farmers' Alliance.