With new infrastructure in the region came new opportunities for Sikh immigrants to do what they had done for generations: farm. Sikhs began working as farmhands and, soon after, harvesting their own crops. Known for their work ethic and agricultural expertise, they were considered ‘safe bets’ for investors and quickly amassed more than 80,000 acres of farmland. Just as they began to thrive, their American dream was challenged by increasing acts of discrimination and violence aimed at the successful Sikh immigrants.