Ridge Fields Flourish by Gideon Fairchild

Ridge Fields Flourish explores the intersection of economics, world history, and indigenous agricultural practices in the Andes. It examines how Quechua farmers adapted their traditional techniques, particularly ridge field agriculture (waru waru), to meet the demands of an evolving market economy. This agricultural system, developed by pre-Columbian societies, demonstrates both ecological benefits and productivity, providing insights into sustainable agriculture. The book traces the integration of Andean communities into regional and global markets, analyzing how increased demand for crops like potatoes and quinoa influenced farming practices. It argues that economic adaptation is a dynamic process shaped by historical context, social structures, and environmental constraints. By incorporating archival documents, ethnographic studies, and economic models, Ridge Fields Flourish offers a comprehensive perspective on agricultural adaptation.

The book progresses logically, beginning with the history and agronomy of ridge field agriculture. It then assesses changes in crop selection and land management resulting from market integration, using case studies of specific crops and regions. This approach provides a nuanced understanding of the long-term consequences of market integration on Quechua agricultural systems.