Mechanization in Agriculture

Definition

Mechanization in agriculture refers to the use of machines to perform tasks that were once done manually. This includes everything from plowing and planting to harvesting and processing.

Analogy

Think of mechanization in agriculture like upgrading from a bicycle to a car. Just as a car can get you where you're going faster and more efficiently than a bike, agricultural machinery can complete farming tasks more quickly and effectively than human labor alone.

Related terms

Industrial Revolution: The period of rapid industrial growth with far-reaching social and economic effects, beginning in Britain during the second half of the 18th century, which saw the introduction of many mechanical innovations including those used in agriculture.

Green Revolution: A significant increase in agricultural productivity resulting from the introduction of high-yield varieties of grains, the use of pesticides, and improved management techniques.

Subsistence Agriculture: Farming system where farmers focus on growing enough food to feed themselves and their families.