What was considered the major economic factor in the pre-Civil War South, often referred to as "King Cotton"?

The major economic factor in the pre-Civil War South referred to as "King Cotton" is cotton. This term highlights the immense significance of cotton production in the Southern economy during the 19th century, particularly after the invention of the cotton gin in 1793, which made processing the crop more efficient and profitable. Cotton quickly became the dominant cash crop, driving the economy of the region and leading to an increased demand for land and labor, which, in turn, fueled the expansion of slavery.

The Southern states specialized in cotton production, which was critical for both domestic use and international trade, especially with Britain and other European countries that relied heavily on Southern cotton for their textile mills. This dependency on cotton reinforced the South's distinct economic system and social structures, making it a key issue in the context of sectional tensions leading up to the Civil War. Consequently, the phrase "King Cotton" encapsulates the crop’s central role in shaping the South’s economy and its impact on American history.