The Hungarians of Chaco were of peasant origin. Therefore, their living in Argentina was agricultural work. When they settled down, they were given land in the primeval forest, which they had to dig and break up with their own two hands. They made the land suitable for growing cotton (or vatta as it is called here) with hard work. Many people still make a living from that today. Cattle farming is also typical.
The Hungarians of Chaco were of peasant origin. Therefore, their living in Argentina was agricultural work. When they settled down, they were given land in the primeval forest, which they had to dig and break up with their own two hands. They made the land suitable for growing cotton (or vatta as it is called here) with hard work. Many people still make a living from that today. Cattle farming is also typical.
Cotton field outside Villa Angela
‘One of the most respected leaders of the Hungarians in Chaco is Ferenc Szabó, who immigrated to Argentina from Gernyeszeg (Gornești), Maros Torda County. When he arrived here, he had nothing and could rely on no one but the work of his own hands. Today, he farms a hundred hectares, most of which produces vatta (cotton). Cotton production in Chaco is attributed to the Hungarian settlers. They all make a good living from cotton, which is called white gold around here.’ Délamerikai Magyarság (South American Hungarians), Page 2, 6 August 1959