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American Steppes
The Unexpected Russian Roots of Great Plains Agriculture, 1870s–1930s
Migration and Plant Introduction
Beginning in the 1870s, migrant groups from Russia's steppes settled in the similar environment of the Great Plains. Many were Mennonites. They brought plants, in particular grain and fodder crops, trees and shrubs, as well as weeds.
Influence of Russian and Jewish Scientists
Following their example, and drawing on the expertise of émigré Russian-Jewish scientists, the US Department of Agriculture introduced more plants, agricultural sciences, especially soil science; and methods of planting trees to shelter the land from the wind.
Development of Agriculture in the Great Plains
By the 1930s, many of the grain varieties in the Great Plains had been imported from the steppes. The fertile soil was classified using the Russian term chernozem. The US Forest Service was planting shelterbelts using techniques pioneered in the steppes.
Invasive Species and Cultural Roots
And, tumbling across the plains was an invasive weed from the steppes: tumbleweed. Based on archival research in the United States, Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan, this book explores the unexpected Russian roots of Great Plains agriculture.
