Gilbert C. Fite

Gilbert C. Fite (1918-2010) was an American historian and educator who specialized in agricultural and economic history of the United States. He served as president of Eastern Illinois University from 1971 to 1976 and authored numerous influential books on American farming and rural life. His most notable work, "American Farmers: The New Minority" (1981), examined the declining role of farmers in American society and economy during the twentieth century. Fite also wrote extensively about the American South and Great Plains, including "Cotton Fields No More: Southern Agriculture 1865-1980" (1984) and "The Farmers' Frontier 1865-1900" (1966). Throughout his career, Fite held teaching positions at the University of Oklahoma and served as George Lynn Cross Research Professor of History. His research focused particularly on the transformation of American agriculture from subsistence farming to commercial enterprise, and the social and economic impacts of this change. The Western History Association established the Gilbert C. Fite Award in his honor, recognizing outstanding scholarship in agricultural and rural history. His work continues to influence modern understanding of American agricultural development and rural economic change.

Readers praise Fite's research depth and clear presentation of complex agricultural history. His writing received recognition for documenting rural America's transformation without romanticizing farm life. On Amazon, "American Farmers: The New Minority" maintains a 4.5/5 rating, with readers noting its thorough analysis of farming's decline in American society. Academic reviewers appreciate his use of economic data and personal accounts. "Cotton Fields No More" earns similar ratings. Readers highlight Fite's balanced coverage of technological changes and social impacts in Southern agriculture. One reviewer called it "the definitive work on Southern agricultural transformation." Common criticisms include: - Dense academic writing style - Limited coverage of environmental impacts - Dated statistical information in older works - Focus on economic over social factors Goodreads ratings average 3.8/5 across his works. Academic journal reviews remain positive, particularly for his research methodology. Library holdings and course adoption rates indicate continued relevance in agricultural history studies. No major negative reviews found on mainstream platforms.

Cotton Fields No More: Agriculture in the South, 1865-1980 - Examines the transformation of Southern agriculture from post-Civil War sharecropping to modern farming methods through 1980.

George N. Peek and the Fight for Farm Parity - Documents the life of George Peek and his advocacy for agricultural price supports during the early 20th century.

Peter Norbeck: Prairie Statesman - Chronicles the life and political career of South Dakota Senator Peter Norbeck, focusing on his work during the Progressive Era and Great Depression.

Mount Rushmore on the First 50 Years - Details the planning, construction, and early history of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial from 1927-1977.

American Farmers: The New Minority - Analyzes the declining number of American farmers and the changing nature of agriculture in the United States during the 20th century.

The Farmers' Frontier 1865-1900 - Explores the settlement and development of agricultural communities in the American West following the Civil War.

Richard B. Russell, Jr., Senator from Georgia - Provides a comprehensive biography of Senator Richard Russell and his influence on American politics and agricultural policy.

Great Plains Farming - Examines agricultural practices, challenges, and developments in the Great Plains region from settlement through the mid-20th century.

Richard Hofstadter writes about American political and social history with focus on intellectual movements and ideological shifts. His work on agrarian politics shares themes with Fite's research on farming and rural life.

Paul W. Gates specializes in American land policy and agricultural development during the 19th century. His research covers public lands and frontier settlement patterns that intersect with Fite's work on farming communities.

Fred A. Shannon examines American agricultural history and the economic conditions of farmers. His studies of grain farming and agricultural markets complement Fite's analysis of farming economics.

William Cronon focuses on environmental history and the relationship between people and landscapes in America. His work on the development of Chicago and its connections to rural economies relates to Fite's research on agricultural markets.

John Mark Hansen analyzes American agricultural policy and farm politics in the 20th century. His research on farm organizations and political movements builds on themes found in Fite's writings about agricultural reform.