Country life movement

Report of the Country Life Commission

Country Life Movement

The Country Life Movement was a social and political initiative in the early 20th century that aimed to improve the living and working conditions of people in rural areas of the United States. It emerged as a response to the rapid industrialization and urbanization that characterized the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which led to a decline in rural populations and a perceived degradation of rural life.

Origins and Development

The movement's origins can be traced back to concerns about the exodus of people from rural to urban areas, seeking better employment and living conditions. This demographic shift threatened the agricultural sector, which was the backbone of the American economy at the time. In response, intellectuals, reformers, and policymakers began to advocate for improvements in rural living conditions to make farm life more attractive and sustainable.

One of the pivotal figures in the Country Life Movement was Liberty Hyde Bailey, a horticulturist and the first chairman of the Country Life Commission, appointed by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1908. The commission was tasked with investigating the living conditions of rural America and making recommendations for improvements.

Key Principles and Goals

The Country Life Movement was built around several key principles and goals, including:

• Improving agricultural education and extending the reach of agricultural colleges and extension services to provide farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to increase productivity and efficiency.
• Enhancing rural infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, to improve the quality of life for rural residents.
• Promoting rural cooperatives to help farmers achieve better prices for their products and reduce their expenses.
• Encouraging the beautification and modernization of farm homes and communities to make rural living more appealing.

Impact and Legacy

The Country Life Movement had a significant impact on rural America. It led to the establishment of agricultural high schools and the expansion of the Cooperative Extension Service, which played a crucial role in disseminating agricultural knowledge and practices. The movement also spurred the development of rural electrification and telephone service, improving the quality of life for many rural residents.

However, the movement's success was mixed. While it made significant strides in education and infrastructure, its impact on reversing the rural exodus was limited. The economic allure of urban areas continued to draw people away from rural communities.

Despite its mixed success, the Country Life Movement laid the groundwork for future rural development initiatives and highlighted the importance of addressing the needs and challenges of rural communities. Its legacy can be seen in the ongoing efforts to improve rural living conditions and sustain agricultural communities in the United States.