The Transformation of Rural Life - (Studies in Rural Culture) by Jane Adams (Paperback)

About the Book

Transformation of Rural Life: Southern Illinois, 1890-1990

Book Synopsis

Jane Adams focuses on the transformation of rural life in Union County, Illinois, as she explores the ways in which American farming has been experienced and understood in the twentieth century. Reconstructing the histories of seven farms, she places the details of daily life within the context of political and economic change. Adams identifies contradictions that, on a personal level, influenced relations between children and parents, men and women, and bosses and laborers, and that, more generally, changed structures of power within the larger rural community. In this historical ethnography, Adams traces two contradictory narratives: one stresses plenitude - rich networks of neighbors and kin, the ability to supply families from the farm, the generosity shown to those in need - while the other stresses the acute hardships and oppressive class, gender, and age inequities that characterized farm life. The New Deal and World War II disrupted both patterns, as the increased capital necessary for successful farming forced many to move from agriculture to higher-paid nonfarm work. This shift also changed the structure of the farm household, as homes modernized and women found work off the farm. Adams concludes that large-scale bureaucracies leveled existing class distinctions and that community networks eroded as farmers came to realize an improved standard of living.

Review Quotes

ÝA¨ strong and important contribution to the history of rural life in the United States.

"Journal of American History"

Solidly researched, well argued, and beautifully written.

John Mack Faragher, Yale University

"Solidly researched, well argued, and beautifully written.

John Mack Faragher, Yale University"

[A] strong and important contribution to the history of rural life in the United States.

"Journal of American History"

A significant case study and a well-written and attractively produced book. . . . A major contribution to our field.

"Agricultural History"

A treasure trove of information.

"Illinois Historical Journal"

Adams . . . communicates a love of place and an empathy with people that is captivating.

"Anthropological Quarterly"

About the Author

Jane Adams is associate professor of anthropology and associate professor of history at Southern Illinois University.