Final answer:
The growth of the grassroots movement among farmers, such as the Grange and Farmers' Alliance, led to significant political and social change, including the creation of the Populist Party which addressed farmers' economic concerns. Women and African Americans also played vital roles in the broader progression of social reforms. At times, the movement took to militant tactics to achieve their goals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The grass-roots movement that targeted the issues facing farmers and rural communities emerged out of desperation and a need for change. This movement incarnated through various organizations, most notably the Grange and the Farmers' Alliance. Their combined efforts educated farmers on economic issues, advocated for better shipping rates and prices on essentials, and even led to the creation of the Populist Party.
The Farmers' Alliance played a significant role in improving the plight of farmers in the 19th century. It accomplished this by promoting low-interest rates and government regulation of railroads and banking, although it faced criticism for excluding tenant farmers and African Americans. As a response to government inaction, political intervention became the next logical step for farmers seeking change, culminating in the establishment of the Populist Party, which focused on the needs of laborers and advocated for various socioeconomic reforms, including a graduated income tax and the coinage of silver, aimed at putting more wealth into the hands of the working class.
Women also played an influential role in the alliance movement, which aligned with their push for suffrage, and African Americans and other diverse members joined the broader Progressive causes that emerged later on. At times, the movement took on more militant tactics, such as those advocated by the Farm Holiday Association, which included violent protests and civil disobedience to force governmental action on farmer's demands.