* Economic incentives. Slavery provided poor whites with a source of cheap labor. By owning slaves, poor whites could compete economically with wealthier planters, who could afford to pay higher wages for free labor.
* Social status. Slavery gave poor whites a sense of status and privilege over slaves. This helped to compensate for their lack of economic success.
* Political power. Slavery gave poor whites a political voice. They could use their votes to protect their interests, such as limiting the rights of free blacks.
* Religious beliefs. Some poor whites believed that slavery was sanctioned by the Bible. They saw slavery as a way to maintain social order and protect their way of life.
* Racism. Many poor whites were racist and believed that blacks were inferior to whites. This racism made it easier for them to accept slavery.