Mercantilism was an economic theory whereby colonies were founded and maintained for the benefit of the mother country. Furthermore, the government had the ability to regulate its own economy with the intent of dominating over rival countries. Mercantilist countries tended to favor the creation of domestic (national) industries and businesses, and tried to discourage importing goods from other economies (usually by tariffs.) Effective mercantilism was thought to enable a country to become economically self-sufficient. This is the sort of relationship England had with the American colonies. Mercantilism dominated the economic landscape. Colonists were only able to trade with British merchants, and colonial manufacturing ventures were largely frowned upon. The British Navigation Acts regulated these policies. Smuggling was common. Politically, the British practiced a policy of salutary neglect.
A, Slaves provided much of the labor on plantations that grew cash crops would be the answer I would go with. Most slaves worked in crop fields, and iron working didn't become prominent in the US until the industrial revolution about 10 years after the Civil War. I cannot say I'm 100% certain, but the others to me don't seem to make sense when looking at the situation.
States did have more rights after the civil war
Panama Canal Zone separates the North from the South <span />
Some examples of how a National Governments work are:
1) establish foreign policy, treaties,etc.
2) declare war
3) coin money
4) establish the army and/or navy
