Smith, J D 1973-07-06
Cotton farmer J. D. Smith discusses the bracero program and his role in sustaining it.
General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: J.D. Smith
Additional Parties Recorded: None
Date: July 06, 1973
Location: Needmore, Texas
Interviewer: Jeff Townsend
Length: 1 hour
Abstract
Tape 1, Side 1: Move from Oklahoma to Littlefield in 1925 recalled,
Post-World War II use of Mexican-American farm workers reviewed,
Lack of preparation for worker accommodation noted,
Need for braceros, operation of bracero program examined,
Changes in program cited,
Explanation of origin of Plains Cotton Growers,
Change from Pfeiffenberger to Johnson recalled,
Attitude toward Labor Department,
Workers from state of Chihuahua preferred,
Discussion of Catholic opposition.
Tape 1, Side 2: Braceros’ medical needs discussed,
Paternal aspects of the program claimed,
Lack of social problems claimed,
Speculation of effects of the program on the Mexican economy,
Mexican-U. S. negotiations cited,
Gradual decline of the program described,
Labor Association crews mentioned,
Appraisal of the bracero program given,
Bracero program as foreign aid explained,
Discussion of illegal Mexican workers (wetbacks),
Attitudes toward Border Patrol expressed,
Contributions of George H, Mahon cited,
Interviewer’s note,
Anecdote concerning bracero Jose Torres and others.
Range Dates: 1925-1973
Bulk Dates: 1940s-1960s
Access Information
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Recording Format Notes:
Transcript:
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