In the first chapter, we learn that Farmer Jones is a drunk and an irresponsible animal-owner.
The animals meet in the great barn to listen to the pig, Old Major, who is old and wants to share his wisdom.
He explains to the animals that they are being exploited by the farmer: the animals do all the work but they receive none of the reward for their efforts.
Old Major ends by teaching the animals the song, “Beasts of England”, encouraging them to overthrow the rule of Man.
