What was the dominant economic activity on the Great Plains during the 19th century?

The dominant economic activity on the Great Plains during the 19th century was farming and ranching. This region, characterized by its vast stretches of land and fertile soil, became a crucial area for agricultural development as settlers moved westward. The adoption of new agricultural technologies, such as the steel plow and windmill, allowed for more effective farming in the arid conditions of the plains.

During this time, the Homestead Act of 1862 encouraged settlement by offering land to individuals willing to cultivate it. This led to an influx of farmers who engaged in wheat farming as well as cattle ranching, which became essential due to the expansive grasslands that were ideal for grazing livestock. The meatpacking industry also emerged alongside ranching, further influencing the economy of the Great Plains.

Mining, manufacturing, and forestry were less dominant in this region. While mining was crucial in places like California and the Rockies, it did not have the same impact on the Great Plains. The manufacturing industry was primarily located in more urbanized areas, and the Great Plains did not have the extensive forests needed for a significant forestry industry. Thus, farming and ranching were indeed the backbone of the economy in the Great Plains during the 19th century.