Final answer:
Farmers in 1880 had opportunities centered around the expansion of railroads and advancements in farming technologies. Yet, many faced economic hardships due to high tariffs, overproduction, and declining commodity prices. The formation of organizations like the Grange and Farmers Alliance signified farmer efforts to collectively improve their conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Opportunities for farmers in 1880 were notably influenced by proximity to railroads. Landowners near railroads had an advantage in creating successful farms, whereas most Americans could only access free, but marginal and isolated homestead grants. These farmers hoped for the eventual arrival of railroads to connect them to markets, often investing in local railroad bonds alongside town boosters. This period was characterized by the challenges of economic hardships, high tariffs, and overproduction, which significantly lowered commodity prices. Despite these troubles, the advent of improved farm machinery and railroad expansion presented some opportunities.
Later on, during the turn of the century and throughout World War I, farmers in the Great Plains experienced a period of prosperity, although this was followed by a sharp decline after the war in commodity prices and an increase in farm foreclosures. The overextension of credit and subsequent overproduction led to financial difficulties for many farmers, especially as government support waned in the 1920s. The result was a mass migration from rural farmlands to urban centers seeking employment.
Actions such as the formation of the Grange and the Farmers Alliance illustrated efforts by farmers to organize themselves and fight against the economic pressures they faced. However, these movements had their limitations including the lack of inclusion of tenant farmers and African Americans.