During the late 19th century, what was a common consequence for farmers dealing with fluctuating prices?

Farmers in the late 19th century faced significant challenges due to fluctuating prices for their crops, which made it difficult to ensure stable income and financial security. In an effort to manage these financial uncertainties, many farmers found themselves increasingly dependent on crop loans.

When crop prices dropped, farmers often needed immediate capital to cover their operating costs, such as purchasing seeds and paying for equipment or labor. This pressure led them to rely on loans from banks and suppliers, which could be risky. If prices fell further, farmers might struggle to pay back these debts, creating a cycle of dependency on loans for survival.

This reliance on credit contributed to many farmers' hardships, especially as interest rates could be high, and prices for their crops could remain low for extended periods. Consequently, this financial strain often resulted in increased bankruptcies and foreclosures among farmers, as they could not make enough money to repay their debts. Thus, the correct answer highlights a significant economic consequence that resulted from the volatility in agricultural commodity prices during that time.