Land of Cotton

Cotton has historically been the economic backbone of the Southern US. The invention of the cotton gin dramatically increased production, jobs, and wealth among a select few. Unfortunately, it also contributed to increased slavery and confiscation of fertile lands from Native Americans. This crop dominated the southern economy until the 1930s and is still a leading agricultural product in several southern states. In the aftermath of the Civil War, cotton mills began to dominate the scene and became the sites of yet more human rights violations. This industry continued to thrive until the later part of the 20th century when most were moved to developing nations in search of cheaper labor.