What was a significant change in midwestern farming in the last half of the nineteenth century?

The significant change in midwestern farming during the last half of the nineteenth century was the transition from small family farms to large commercialized farms. This shift was primarily driven by advancements in agricultural technology, such as the introduction of new machinery like the reaper and the plow, which allowed for more efficient farming practices. Additionally, the expansion of railroads facilitated access to larger markets, enabling farmers to sell their crops beyond local communities. As a result, farming became increasingly focused on producing goods for commercial sale rather than solely for subsistence.

During this period, many smaller farms could not compete with the efficiency and scale of larger operations, leading to a consolidation of farms. This trend ultimately changed the landscape of agriculture in the Midwest, moving towards a more industrialized and profit-driven model of farming.