The greatest ruses in American history are probably the way lobbyist for big food corporations did two things
a) made it more expensive for Americans (and Canadians) to get fresh food compared to fast food.
b) took the seed program away from 'open source' universities and instead got patents.
That meant a virtual monopoly on seeds. It also meant that when the wind blew (literally) from adjacent farms the farmer trying to use his own seed could (and routinely were/are) sued by food giant Monsanto.
Monsanto is probably the worst corporation in America doing more harm to Americans than oil companies. Yes, they've made food, and increased production as well. They've also looked after their fat profits at the expense of the overall health and choice of consumers.
Even though it's small fry and Monsanto will bury them in a 10 year litigation, farmers are fighting back.
Consumers can demand better, but you have to get involved/informed.
http://www.cornucopia.org/2011/03/farmers-and-seed-producers-lunch-preemptive-strike-against-monsanto/
