Before World War II the focus of Arizona’s economy was primary production—mineral extraction, lumbering, cattle raising, and crop growing. Since the late 1940s the focus has shifted toward manufacturing industry and services, the economy becoming one that better represents the country’s growing affluence and technology. This is especially true of the Phoenix area, where a vibrant high-technology economy has arisen. Good soil, plenty of irrigation water, and a long growing season enable Arizona to produce cotton, alfalfa, and a variety of grains, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Arizona continues to be one of the country’s leading cotton producers. For many years ...(100 of 6167 words)