In the past, sharecropping was a common practice in agriculture, where landowners (landlords) would rent out their land to farmers (sharecroppers) in exchange for a portion of the crop yield. This arrangement worked well for both parties as it allowed landlords to make a profit without the need for extensive farming experience, while giving sharecroppers a means to feed their families and earn an income without the need for upfront capital.

However, a sharecropping agreement was not always a guarantee of success for landlords. Sharecroppers often lacked the financial resources to invest in the land, making it difficult for them to produce significant yields. Additionally, weather conditions, pests, and other unforeseen circumstances could lead to crop failures, causing sharecroppers to default on their rent payments.

To mitigate these risks, landlords required sharecroppers to sign an agreement, detailing the terms of the lease. This agreement would outline the rent payments due, the extent of the land use, and the responsibilities of both parties. By having a written agreement, landlords could ensure that they were receiving a fair share of the crop yield and that sharecroppers were meeting their obligations.

Moreover, the agreement would serve as a legal document that could settle any disputes between the parties. If a sharecropper failed to meet their obligations under the terms of the agreement, the landlord could evict them from the property without the need for costly court battles. In turn, if the landlord failed to meet their obligations, the sharecropper could hold them liable and seek legal action.

In conclusion, landlords obtained sharecropping agreements to protect their investments and ensure a steady income from their land. These agreements served as a legal document that established the terms of the lease, ensuring that both parties understood their obligations and could avoid costly disputes. While sharecropping may no longer be a common practice, the importance of having written agreements in any business transaction remains paramount.