The Rise of Soybeans in U.S. Agriculture
Soybeans may seem ubiquitous in today’s American agriculture, but their widespread cultivation is a relatively recent phenomenon. According to Mark Oppold, host of American Agriculture History Minute, soybeans were not widely grown in the United States until the early 1930s.
World War II and the Soybean Boom
The rapid rise of soybeans in the U.S. was closely tied to historical events. By 1942, the United States had become the world’s largest producer of soybeans. This dramatic increase was driven in part by World War II, which created a high demand for fats, oils, and protein-rich soybean meal. These products were essential both for food supplies and industrial uses during the war effort.
From 3% to 76%: U.S. Share of World Production
Between 1930 and 1942, America’s share of global soybean production jumped from a mere 3% to 47%. By 1969, this share had climbed even higher to 76%, cementing the United States as the dominant player in the international soybean market.
Soybeans as America’s Top Cash Crop
The soybean’s rise culminated in the early 1970s. By 1973, soybeans had become the number one cash crop in the United States, as well as one of the country’s leading export commodities. This transformation illustrates not only the adaptability of American agriculture but also the influence of global events on domestic farming priorities.
Legacy of the Soybean Industry
Today, soybeans remain a cornerstone of U.S. agriculture, underpinning industries ranging from food production to livestock feed and biofuels. Their journey from a minor crop to a global powerhouse reflects both strategic agricultural innovation and the historical circumstances that shaped modern American farming.
I’m Mark Oppold, with an American Agriculture History Minute.