Migrant Experiences and Societal Responses

Chapter 19 of 'The Grapes of Wrath' highlights the historical context of land ownership in California, where Americans took land from Mexicans. The descendants of these landowners now treat farming as an industry, exploiting migrant workers for low wages. Migrants, including the Joads, flock to California seeking work and face hostility and unfair labor practices. They live in makeshift towns and are repressed by landowners and police. The chapter emphasizes themes of wrath and meekness, as migrants face exploitation and conflict, leading to unrest and anger.

What was the initial reason Americans wanted land in California?

• To expand agricultural production

• To build railroads

• To establish new cities

• To gain control from Mexico

How do landowners view their crops in the context of farming as an industry?

• As a means to feed the community

• As a way to preserve tradition

• As a source of national pride

• In terms of monetary value

What happens to the wages of migrant workers after they are paid?

• They use it to travel to other states

• They save it for future investments

• They send it back to their families

• They spend it at farm stores

Why do California residents dislike the migrants?

• They are concerned about cultural differences

• They think migrants are uneducated

• They fear migrants will steal their land

• They believe migrants will take their jobs

What do migrants see as one with the land?

• Their homes

• Food

• Their traditions

• Their families

What do shopkeepers know about the migrants?

• They have no money to spend

• They are skilled laborers

• They are looking for permanent homes

• They have plenty of money to spend

What is a Hooverville?

• A government program for housing

• A makeshift town for migrants

• A popular restaurant chain

• A type of farming equipment

How do landowners and police respond to migrants trying to settle?

• They offer them jobs

• They provide them with housing

• They drive them off the land

• They ignore their presence

What do the owners form to protect themselves from migrants?

• Community groups

• Unions

• Associations

• Political parties

What theme is highlighted in Chapter 19 of The Grapes of Wrath?

• Hope vs. Despair

• Freedom vs. Oppression

• Wrath vs. Meekness

• Love vs. Hate