Asked by Nathaniel Dominguez on May 25, 2024

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What staple was the key to making Carolina an extremely hierarchical society, ruled by the wealthiest elite in English North America?

A) wheat
B) rice
C) potatoes
D) tobacco
E) sugarcane

Hierarchical Society

A society that is structured in a hierarchy of ranks with those at the top having more power and privileges than those lower down.

Wealthiest Elite

A small group of people with significant wealth and power within a society, often exuding considerable influence in economic, political, or social realms.

Rice

A staple food grain consumed worldwide, known for its versatility in various cuisines and as a major agricultural product in many countries.

  • Understand the economic foundation and social hierarchies of English North American colonies, particularly focusing on Carolina.
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Verified Answer

AC
Alicia CannonMay 28, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
Rice was the key staple crop in Carolina, particularly in the lowcountry, and it required a great deal of labor to cultivate. This labor was performed by enslaved Africans who were brought to Carolina specifically to work in the rice fields. The demand for labor to work in the rice fields created an extremely hierarchical society in which the wealthiest elite owned vast plantations and held a great deal of power over both the enslaved laborers and less wealthy white settlers.