Question

Imagine you investigated the role colonial plantations had on the increase of the African slave trade. Which of the following statements would provide the best findings of your investigation? (1 point)

A) The demand for less-intensive labor to harvest cash crops increased the African slave trade.
B) The demand to cultivate plantation land decreased so the African slave trade increased to reduce labor costs.
C) The demand to harvest cash crops at a cheap labor price increased the African slave trade.
D) The demand for skilled labor to harvest cash crops increased the African slave trade.

Answer 1

Based on the investigation of the role colonial plantations had on the increase of the African slave trade, the statement that would provide the best findings is option C: "The demand to harvest cash crops at a cheap labor price increased the African slave trade."

Step-by-step explanation:

1. Colonial plantations were established to cultivate cash crops such as sugar, tobacco, cotton, and coffee.

2. These crops were in high demand in European markets.

3. To maximize profits, plantation owners sought to minimize labor costs.

4. They turned to the African slave trade as a source of cheap labor.

5. Slaves were forcibly taken from Africa and transported to the plantations in the Americas.

6. They were subjected to harsh working conditions and treated as property.

7. The demand for cash crops and the desire to minimize labor costs were key factors in driving the increase of the African slave trade.

By choosing option C, you are acknowledging the economic motivations behind the demand for cheap labor and how it led to the increase of the African slave trade. This option provides the most accurate and informative understanding of the investigation's findings.