Beginning of USDA-Division of Chemistry 1860-1890.

From 1860 – 1890, Congress pass Acts setting the stage for the Federal Government to have more influence in agriculture, animal husbandry, and medicine.  Driving these changes was the manifest need for forward-thinking agricultural practices, increased food security, and increased oversight of pharmaceutical industry.  The USDA was first established against the backdrop of the American Civil War (1861-1865), a great conflict and cultural identity crisis that provided an opportune time for the Federal Government to more easily assert necessary and required leadership for America’s future.  Factors leading to the inception and driving the early development of the USDA, including the Bureau of Chemistry, will be discussed.  Early history of USDA Division of Chemistry and its major accomplishments will be highlighted.