Subsistence Farming

Definition

Subsistence farming is a type of agriculture where farmers grow food primarily to feed themselves and their families, rather than for sale or trade. This practice is closely tied to the social and cultural fabric of communities, particularly in regions where people rely on local resources for their survival and economic stability. In many West African societies, subsistence farming was a crucial way of life that shaped their agricultural practices, social organization, and community relationships.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subsistence farming was predominant in West Africa before the introduction of cash crops, with families relying on their own production for food security.
2. The types of crops grown in subsistence farming varied based on local climate and culture, including staples like millet, sorghum, and cassava.
3. Farmers often practiced mixed cropping, where different crops were cultivated together to enhance biodiversity and reduce the risk of crop failure.
4. Women played a critical role in subsistence farming, managing food production and ensuring the family's nutritional needs were met.
5. Seasonal cycles and traditional knowledge significantly influenced subsistence farming practices, guiding when to plant and harvest crops.

Review Questions

• How does subsistence farming contribute to the social structure within West African communities?
  • Subsistence farming is central to the social structure of West African communities as it fosters strong family ties and communal relationships. Families often work together to cultivate crops, which not only ensures food security but also reinforces social bonds. The sharing of knowledge and resources among community members helps sustain traditional practices and supports collective well-being, illustrating how agricultural practices are deeply embedded in the culture.
• In what ways did subsistence farming adapt to changing environmental conditions in West Africa?
  • Subsistence farming in West Africa adapted to changing environmental conditions through various techniques such as crop rotation and mixed cropping. Farmers learned to adjust their planting schedules based on rainfall patterns and soil quality, often incorporating drought-resistant varieties into their practices. This adaptability ensured that communities could continue to produce food despite challenges posed by climate variability, showcasing resilience in traditional agricultural methods.
• Evaluate the impact of colonialism on subsistence farming practices in West Africa and its long-term effects on food security.
  • Colonialism significantly disrupted subsistence farming practices in West Africa by introducing cash crops aimed at export markets, which altered traditional agricultural systems. This shift often led to land being taken from local farmers for plantation agriculture, decreasing food production for local consumption. The long-term effects included diminished food security as reliance on imported foods grew, altering diets and increasing vulnerability to market fluctuations. The legacy of these changes is still evident today as communities navigate the challenges of balancing modern agricultural demands with traditional subsistence practices.

Related terms

Crop Rotation: A farming practice where different crops are grown in the same area in sequential seasons to improve soil health and reduce pests.

Agrarian Society: A society that is primarily dependent on agriculture for its economic sustenance and way of life.

Food Security: The condition in which all people have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs.