CHAPTER IX 
HOGS 
Pigs and Pigs.—Farming without hogs is like bank¬ 
ing without money or plowing without a plow. Certain 
kinds of banking may be accomplished without money, 
and it is possible to plow without a plow. However, 
the greater portion of our farming involves at least a 
few hogs. One reason for the almost universal rais¬ 
ing of the hog is the fact that he is adapted to a wide 
range of climate and conditions. His original home 
was probably in warm countries, but he is found in al¬ 
most all parts of the world. Due to the fact that much 
of the meat used for human food comes from the hog, 
special attention has been given to improving and car¬ 
ing for the animal. 
It has not been so many years ago since our porkers 
were long nosed, long eared, razor-backed creatures 
roaming about the forests. They obtained a scanty liv¬ 
ing from roots and herbs of the wilds. These swine 
required almost two years to develop into an animal 
suitable for slaughtering. Our forefathers found that 
it was more satisfactory to domesticate hogs and feed 
them for a more dependable supply of meat. 
Under the influences of civilization, hogs have ceased 
to develop long ears, necks and razor-backs. They have 
become a rapidly growing animal, the most economical 
and profitable for the American farmer. Natural se- 
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