These essays, based on the 1980 Agricultural History Symposium held at Texas A&M University, spotlight the long-neglected area of agricultural development in the Southwest. Focusing on Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, the book traces the history of farming from the point of view of novelists, businessmen, archaeologists, cattlemen, scientists, and politicians. The twenty-six contributing authors lucidly discuss issues ranging from the secrets of pre-Columbian agriculture to the dilemmas of the county extension agent; from the thriving rice industry to the versatility of the chili pepper; from the struggles of farmer movements to the mushrooming of agribusiness. The symposium will appeal not only to agricultural historians and scientists but also to government agents working with farmers and to students of southwestern lore. The reader gains a fresh perspective on the crises and complexities of farming, from its earliest days to the present. These thoughtful selections promote a greater understanding of the diversity of southwestern agriculture and a heightened awareness of the rich cultural heritage of southwesterners.