Which social group in the South in the early 1800s had the least divisions within their group?

Planter class

Businessmen

Yeoman farmers

1 answer

In the early 1800s Southern society, the planter class generally had the least divisions within their group. The planter class, consisting primarily of large landholders who owned significant numbers of slaves and extensive plantations, was often a more homogeneous group in terms of wealth, social status, and interests. They were typically aligned in their economic interests and lifestyles.

In contrast, yeoman farmers were more diverse, as they included a range of farmers who owned different amounts of land and may have had varying degrees of economic success. They often had different social and economic conditions affecting their lives and communities.

Businessmen, while more varied in their enterprises and social standings, could also experience significant divisions depending on their specific industries and the nature of their businesses.

Thus, in terms of social cohesion and shared interests, the planter class was generally more unified compared to the other groups mentioned.