Question

How and why did the economies and social norms of the North and South steadily diverge over the course of the first half of the nineteenth century.
(use at least 3 supporting facts to defend his/her position)

Answer 1

Answer:

Climate, Mexican-American War, King Cotton, War of 1812

Explanation:

During this period we begin to see how the North becomes more industrialized and the South heavily relies on an agricultural lifestyle. The South had very good climate and great soil for the growth of cash crops such as tobacco and cotton. However, with the earlier invention of the cotton gin in the very late 18th century, and the large amount of free labor, exploited from slaves, the South was able to form a Cotton Kingdom to the point where they exported nearly 2/3rds of the worlds cotton. The Mexican American War would also add new lands, such as modern day Texas, providing even more new land and resources to keep this agricultural life. Slaves would be critical to this new lifestyle, being the core in Southern norm and culture. As for the North, they didn't have the proper grounds for cash crops, and would soon begin to industrialize, building factories and roads that would allow them to transport goods and lead to a massive industrial boom. Strangely enough, the large amounts of cotton being produced would help with this boom, since it would be used in textile mills. However, the North would begin to drift away from slavery, and would see a wave of immigrants (like the Irish) come in to provide labor. After the War of 1812, the South would see an increase in cotton productions, and the North in textile mills, built on rivers to be water powered. With help of unskilled workers, the mills and factories allowed for mass production, which in turn would promote consumerism.

This a general idea, but more can be said still.