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Before the use of
tractors or other machinery, plows (or ploughs), were used to turn
the soil and create furrows in the earth. Farmers used oxen or horses to
draw the plow and break up the ground. The plow's primary purpose was to
dig up the soil in preparation for harrowing and planting. Farmers took
great pride in their plowing technique. A clean, solid furrow demonstrated
the farmer's handiwork and expertise to his peers.
As new plows were developed the design would change;
plows were originally made of wood until pieces of scrap were placed on
the front making them more durable. Eventually, all plows were made of
iron which created a very even furrow in the ground with its sharp chisel-shaped
blade. The steam tractor was eventually produced which could pull up to
six plows at a time.
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