Slavery was the dominating reality of all Southern life. Socially, whites believed they were superior to slaves. Even the "poor white trash" southerners considered themselves far above blacks because racially they were still a part of the ruling class. The planters, those who owned plantations and slaves, were at the top of the economic hierarchy. Because of this, they had much social power and influence. The system of slavery also profoundly affected the South's and the nation's economy. By 1860, 57% of the U.S.'s total export revenue was generated through the cotton industry- which was made possible by slave labor. The social and economic structure of the South was, in effect, brought about by the institution of slavery.
2 comments:
i do agree with sara. slavery was the dominating reality of all southern life. in the south the main focus was agriculture so therfore slaves were used to plant and reep crops. planters who own plantations were also at the top of the hierarchy.so this encourage them to get more slaves.
Your right, the southern and US economy becomes dependent on slavery becasue it was , just as i found in statistics, over 50% of the US money from exports. ( From cotten that is).
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