Which could be a reason for the Southern economic worth being so much higher than that of the New England and the Middle Colonies?
One possible reason for the Southern economic worth being higher than that of the New England and the Middle Colonies was the predominance of agriculture in the Southern colonies.
To understand this, let's break it down:
1. Different Economic Systems: The Southern colonies, particularly Virginia and the Carolinas, relied heavily on cash crop plantation economies. They cultivated crops such as tobacco, rice, and indigo on large plantations worked by enslaved labor. These crops were in high demand in Europe and other colonies, which created profitable markets for the Southern colonies.
2. Favorable Climate and Geography: The Southern colonies had a more favorable climate and longer growing seasons compared to the New England and the Middle Colonies. The hot and humid climate, along with fertile soil, made it ideal for cash crops to thrive, resulting in higher yields and profitability.
3. Slave Labor: The institution of slavery played a significant role in the Southern colonies' economic success. Enslaved labor was used extensively in the cultivation and harvesting of cash crops. This allowed planters to cultivate more land and generate higher profits. The intensive use of enslaved labor contributed to lower labor costs and higher profit margins.
4. Market Dominance: The demand for Southern cash crops, such as tobacco and rice, created a virtual monopoly for the Southern colonies. They had established trade networks with Europe and the West Indies, allowing them to export their products and obtain higher prices. This market dominance gave the Southern colonies an economic advantage over their northern counterparts.
In summary, the Southern colonies' higher economic worth can be attributed to their reliance on plantation agriculture, favorable climate and geography, the use of enslaved labor, and market dominance in cash crop exports.
Exports to England of rice, cotton, tobacco, and other agricultural products.
http://www.sjsu.edu/faculty/watkins/colonies1763.htm