Final answer:
American farmers caused economic problems for themselves through overproduction and accruing debt. Increasing production to counter debt led to a surplus, which further drove down crop prices. Coupled with high tariffs, lack of support from government policies, and dependence on an unstable market, these practices led to a self-perpetuating economic hardship among farmers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Some farmers caused their own economic problems through overproduction and debt. Overproduction of crops, particularly after World War I, led to a surplus in the market, which in turn drove prices down, exacerbating the farmers' financial distress. Many farmers responded to their mounting debts by increasing their production further, not realizing that this would only lead to continuous price declines. Furthermore, farmers faced high tariffs on goods they required, competition from foreign markets, and vetoes against federal price supports suggested by Congress, which left them without much-needed government assistance during times like the Great Depression.
Agricultural prices spiraled downward due to the use of more productive farming tools, expansion of acreage, and market competition. Rural banks began to fail as many defaulted on their loans. This was compounded by bad practices such as mortgaging farms and borrowing money against future production, practices that were unsustainable once the economic conditions changed.
Ultimately, desperate efforts to boost profits through overproduction without considering long-term repercussions to the soil and market, coupled with a lack of supportive policies, were key factors leading to widespread economic difficulties for many American farmers.