Here the term "sharecropper" has been expanded to include many nonfarm workers. For the real meaning of the term one should look to such matters as low wages, insecurity, and lack of opportunity for self-direction and responsible participation in community affairs. The national pattern of exploitation finds its most exaggerated expression in the South with differentials everywhere threatening to defeat the struggling democratic effort. Originally published in 1941. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.