Progress and Pestilence: Entomological Roots of the USDA.

Insects have always had a pronounced impact on agriculture.  This talk concentrates on U.S. agriculture from colonial times through the 19th century by highlighting insects and the personalities who studied them. Great strides were made in agricultural entomology during this period.   Publication of scientific research through journals, periodicals, and books went far in dispelling the myths that surrounded insect biology and enabled farmers to confront insect related issues.  This presentation also gives a glimpse into agriculture during this period and underscores topics that are still relevant to agriculture today.