What was one of the major issues that farmers faced leading to the formation of the NPL?

The formation of the Nonpartisan League (NPL) in North Dakota was significantly influenced by the exploitation farmers experienced at the hands of grain merchants and railroad companies. In the early 20th century, many farmers found themselves at the mercy of these powerful entities, facing unfair pricing practices and high transportation costs that impacted their profits. Railroads often charged exorbitant rates to transport grains, and merchants would manipulate prices, paying farmers less than what their crops were worth. This exploitation created a sense of urgency among farmers, motivating them to organize and advocate for reforms that would protect their economic interests. The NPL emerged as a powerful political movement aimed at addressing these grievances, promoting cooperative businesses, and pushing for state ownership of key industries to achieve fairer treatment for farmers.