The History of California Agriculture: Focus on Women Farmworkers

Margo McBane, San Jose State University

Copyright retained by the author. All rights reserved.

Abstract

The History of California Agriculture: Focus on Women Farmworkers by Margo McBane (1975) draws on historical accounts, personal narratives, and photographs to explore the experiences of various labor groups during the development of California’s agricultural system. The book shows how gender, race, nationality, immigration laws, economic pressure, and seasonal work were used to control workers and keep wages low. McBane puts special emphasis on women farmworkers, highlighting how women balanced fieldwork with domestic responsibilities while also being paid less and given fewer opportunities.