Leonidas L. Polk's Influence On Agriculture

The philosopher I chose to write about is not a traditional philosopher but, one whose ideas have been imperative to our agricultural system as we know it today. Leonidas L. Polk was an American farmer, journalist and political figure. Polk was the first North Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture. He also served on the House of Representatives in North Carolina for a year. Polk’s items helped the establishment of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. He is a strong believer in fair opportunities for farmers to have some control over the market prices and the importance of education. Leonidas Polk was born in Anson county, North Carolina on April 24th 1837. He was the son of two successful farmers; he lost both of his parents by the

One of which was to “adverse effects of crop-linen system on farmers in the period following the civil war.”3 A crop-linen system was a credit system used by cotton farmers in the south.4 Polk founded the progressive farmer in 1886, the papers purpose was not just to bring attention to new agricultural methods but, also improvement. This country life style magazine was published once a month every year, and is still publishing stories today. During his support for the National Farmers Alliance, he advocated for the coinage of silver, and a graduated income tax on properties worth more than $100,000.5 Polk also supported the “sub-treasury” plan. This plan gave farmers the option to “deposit crops for government certificates worth [80%] of their market value.”6 This plan was instated to eliminate forced seasonal crop sales at deflated prices.7 This was so farmers could actually make a profit and aren’t left in the poverty

He felt the best way to learn new methods of farming or increase your interests, was to create clubs and other types of group organizations. I have to say, I agree with his point of view. One of the best ways to learn is from other peoples experiences along with your own. He was also a strong believer in agricultural diversification and education. The diversification of agriculture is when there is a shift in dominance of one crop regionally to the regional production of a number of crops to keep up with the supply demands. Polk was fundamental in establishing a separate state college.8 Originally named the North Carolina College of Agricultural and Mechanic Arts in 1887, later became North Carolina State University. Polk’s actions that had been imposed in favor of the people in agriculture supports his beliefs in them. He believes that farmers should be able to make a profit large enough to support their lifestyle and provide for their families. The importance of agricultural education is presented in his founding college, North Carolina College of Agricultural and Mechanic