i think it was slaves (yeah it was slaves)
Southern cotton farmers needed extensive hand labor to plant, pick, gin, and bale the cotton they grew. Without slaves, it would have been difficult to find affordable laborers.
Before the widespread use of enslaved labor, cotton was picked by indentured servants and free laborers in Europe and America. Additionally, Native Americans also participated in early cotton cultivation and harvesting. The transition to slave labor became prevalent as the demand for cotton increased, particularly in the Southern United States during the 19th century.
Cotton pickers are poor, menial laborers who work outdoors in warm climates. Men would probably wear worn-out overalls, maybe a shirt, and be barefoot. Women might wear an old dress and be barefoot as well.
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Before the invention of the cotton gin, harvesting cotton was labor-intensive and time-consuming due to the need for manual separation of cotton fibers from the seeds. This process required significant effort and resulted in low efficiency, as it was challenging to extract the fibers without damaging them. Additionally, the high volume of cotton produced in the southern United States made it difficult for laborers to keep up with demand, limiting the crop's profitability and widespread cultivation. Overall, the laborious nature of cotton processing hindered the growth of the cotton industry before the cotton gin streamlined the harvesting process.
There have always been laborers in France, but France was never exclusively made of laborers.
A positive result of cotton production is its significant contribution to the global economy, particularly in developing countries where it provides employment and income for millions of farmers and laborers. Additionally, cotton is a versatile raw material used in a wide range of products, from clothing to textiles, promoting industries and fostering trade. Sustainable cotton farming practices can also lead to improved soil health and biodiversity.
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mob of striking laborers
Laborers come from all walks of life.
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