Question

Why did southern landowners develop the convict-leasing system

Answer 1

States began to lease convict labor to the plantations and other facilities seeking labor, as the freedmen were trying to withdraw and work for themselves.

Answer 2

The correct answer is B. They needed a new form of cheap labor once slavery was outlawed.

Explanation: In convict leasing, Southern states and counties would lease convicts to commercials enterprises to generate revenue. This system offered cheap labor for local farms, lumber camps, factories, and railroads.