Peanut production in the US increased rapidly during the early 1900s when the boll weevil caused serious damage to which crop?

The rapid increase in peanut production in the US during the early 1900s is closely linked to the damage caused by the boll weevil to the cotton crop. The boll weevil is a notorious pest that affects cotton plants, causing significant yield losses. As cotton production declined due to the weevil's impact, farmers sought alternative crops to cultivate. Peanuts emerged as a viable option because they are well-suited to the southern climate and soils where cotton was traditionally grown. Furthermore, peanuts are beneficial because they can improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, making them an attractive alternative for farmers looking to maintain their agricultural productivity amid challenges posed by pests like the boll weevil. This shift to peanut cultivation not only provided farmers with a substitute crop but also contributed to the diversification of agriculture in the region.