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Answer:
An oasis can be formed by an underground aquifer or river that creates enough pressure for water to seep to the surface, forming the oasis. These aquifers and natural springs allow for life to exist in harsh climates like the desert and are often well known to local herders, farmers, and travelers in the region.
Economically it had a positive impact on the South, it allowed their economy not to be solely reliant on agriculture. However, as far as their society goes there wasn't a change in their belief system in their stance on African Americans. Many still considered them as second citizens until the Civil Rights Movement.
