Final answer:
Slave states favored counting slaves as part of their total population because it gave them more representation in the Legislative Branch, lower tax burdens, and increased military presence.
Step-by-step explanation:
Slave states were in favor of counting slaves as part of their total population because it would give them more representation in the Legislative Branch. The number of representatives each state had in Congress was based on their population, so by counting slaves as part of their population, slave states could have more representatives and a stronger voice in making laws.
In addition to gaining more representation, counting slaves as part of the population also meant that slave states would have to pay less in taxes. Since taxes were also allocated based on population, slave states would benefit from having a larger population count, which would result in lower tax burdens.
Lastly, counting slaves as part of the population allowed slave states to have more military presence in their areas. During times of war or conflict, the number of troops each state could provide was based on their population. By including enslaved individuals in their population count, slave states could increase their military strength.
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