The plantation era refers to a period characterized by large-scale agricultural estates (plantations) where cash crops were grown primarily for export. It typically involved the use of slave labor and played a significant role in shaping colonial economies and societies.
Related terms
Cash Crop: A cash crop is an agricultural product grown specifically for sale rather than personal use. During the plantation era, examples of cash crops included sugar, tobacco, cotton, and rice.
Slavery: Slavery refers to the institution where individuals are treated as property and forced to work without consent or pay. Slavery was prevalent during the plantation era as enslaved Africans were brought to work on plantations.
Colonialism: Colonialism involves establishing control over foreign territories by one nation with economic exploitation being one of its key motivations. The plantation system was often associated with European colonial powers seeking profit from distant lands.