Question

guided practice
in the 1880s, industry and agriculture transformed the southern economy. factories were built and southern rail lines expanded. although the south had plenty of natural resources, it did not have enough skilled labor and capital investment.
how did farming change in the south after the civil war?
a. farmers diversified their crops.
b. farmers focused on growing only one crop.
c. the number of small farms decreased.
d. the number of large plantations increased.

Explanation:

After the Civil War, the South's old single-crop (cotton) plantation system collapsed due to the end of slavery. To adapt economically and reduce risk, farmers shifted to growing a variety of crops, making diversification the key change. Small farms increased as large plantations were broken up, and the single-crop focus declined, eliminating the other options.

Answer:

A. Farmers diversified their crops.