Sharecropped - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

farming arrangement

Sharecropped refers to a system where a farmer (the sharecropper) cultivates land owned by another person in exchange for a share of the crop produced. This practice was particularly common in the southern United States after the Civil War, as it provided a means for poor farmers, often recently freed slaves, to earn a living while lacking access to their own land. Sharecroppers typically faced economic challenges, as they often ended up in debt to landowners.

Synonyms

cultivated, farm labor, tenant farming.

Examples of usage

After the Civil War, many African American families sharecropped.
The family sharecropped for several years before saving enough money to buy their own farm.
In the South, sharecropping became a common practice among poor farmers.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

After the Civil War in the United States, many freed slaves needed work and ended up sharing crops on land they didn’t own.
Sharecropping became common in the Southern U.S. as a way to continue farming after the end of slavery.
The system was intended to help landowners and laborers both benefit, but it often led to many farmers being in deep debt.

Economic Impact

This agricultural system often resulted in cycles of poverty for many families, as debts were hard to repay.
Many sharecroppers struggled with low crop prices and high rents, making it difficult to earn a stable income.
The sharecropping model contributed to the growth of the agricultural economy in the South but also perpetuated inequality.

Literature and Media

The struggles of sharecroppers are portrayed in classic American literature, such as in 'The Grapes of Wrath' by John Steinbeck.
Films like 'The Help' depict the lives of African American sharecroppers in the context of social change and civil rights.
Folk music from the American South often reflects the experiences of sharecroppers, capturing their hopes and hardships.

Legacy and Memory

Sharecropping is often remembered as a controversial part of American agriculture, highlighting the struggle for freedom and equality.
The practice has faded over time but has left a lasting impact on agricultural practices and economic structures in rural areas.
Many African American communities today trace their history and resilience back to the sharecropping era.

Origin of 'sharecropped'

The term 'sharecrop' emerged in the United States during the Reconstruction era after the Civil War. It combines 'share', denoting a portion of the crop, and 'crop', which refers to cultivated plants. This arrangement often arose from the economic conditions of freed slaves who sought employment and independence but lacked land ownership. Sharecropping allowed landlords to utilize their land while providing laborers with an opportunity to farm. However, this system frequently led to exploitation and perpetuated cycles of poverty, as many sharecroppers fell into debt due to high rents or poor harvests. Over time, sharecropping became associated with the struggles for economic equality in the South.

Sharecropped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations