- Held significant political and economic power, dominating the social hierarchy.
- Owned vast amounts of land and a large number of slaves.
- Controlled the production and trade of cash crops, mainly cotton.
- Profited from the plantation system built on the exploitation of enslaved labor.
Small Slaveholders:
- Typically owned fewer than 20 enslaved individuals.
- Often aspired to become large plantation owners.
- Sometimes faced economic difficulties due to limited resources and competition from large plantations.
- Held less political influence compared to large plantation owners but still supported and participated in the slave system.
Independent White Farmers:
- Owned their land and did not rely on enslaved labor.
- Produced food and supplies for local consumption, not cash crops.
- Generally did not have significant economic or political power.
- Some held negative attitudes towards enslaved individuals and were against abolition.
Poor Whites:
- Did not own land or significant wealth.
- Often worked as tenant farmers or laborers on plantations or small farms.
- Frequently lived in poverty and had little access to education or opportunities.
- Some held resentful attitudes towards enslaved people, fearing economic competition and social equality.
Free Blacks:
- Lived as free individuals, but faced legal restrictions and social discrimination.
- Limited economic opportunities due to discriminatory laws and societal barriers.
- Often worked as skilled laborers, artisans, or merchants.
- Actively sought civil rights and equality, some becoming involved in abolitionist movements.
Black Slaves:
- Were considered property, denied fundamental rights, and subjected to harsh labor conditions.
- Played a crucial role in generating wealth for plantation owners and the southern economy.
- Endured physical and psychological abuse, as well as being separated from families.
- Resisted slavery through various forms of resistance, including sabotage, work slowdowns, and occasionally armed rebellion.