The cotton saga in the northeastern semiarid region: History, decline and the agroecological perspectives

Abstract

The cotton has been cultivated in the northeastern semiarid region in Brazil since the colonial period. In the golden age of production, it played an important role in the economy of the semiarid region. Initially, cotton crops were located close to the backyards of the houses, mainly intended for producing fiber for the slave’s clothing, as well as for the production of food when it was combined with corn and beans. Later on, cotton cultivation was also associated with livestock, generating fiber, food for animals and income for the local population. Cotton reached its peak during the 20th century, when it became known as the “white gold of the Northeast”, until its decline in the 1980s. However, from the beginning of the 21st century, it started a slow and progressive recovery process, now on an agroecological basis, linked to small farmers and the fashion market worldwide, with growing interest in organic cotton fiber. Some aspects that have challenged the cotton production in the past still continue to challenge farmers today. It is precisely on these aspects that this review aims to address. Classic and contemporary authors were brought here, as well as some interviews with key-people involved in the recent experiences with cotton. The objective is to bring out the multidimensionality of the cotton saga in the northeastern semiarid, considering its historical, technical, sociological and marketing aspects to point out ways that may contribute to its future sustainability.