Question

How did slavery develop and expand in the English colonies in the 17th century? As the population of African slaves increased in the colonies, what changes came about in colonial society?

Answer 1

Slavery developed and expanded in the English colonies in the 17th century due to the increasing demand for labor. This change in labor source had significant effects on colonial society.

Step-by-step explanation:

The development and expansion of slavery in the English colonies in the 17th century was influenced by the growing demand for labor to cultivate cash crops such as tobacco and sugar. The English colonists, who initially relied on indentured servants, began to increasingly rely on enslaved Africans as the population of African slaves in the colonies increased. By the end of the 17th century, slavery became deeply rooted in the Chesapeake Bay colonies and the Low Country colonies, shaping colonial society and creating an economic and political ruling class.