Existing comment:
Breakdown of population of South Carolina in 1850:
Planters:
Population of South Carolina in 1850: 43,345 or 6.50%
The most powerful and influential group in antebellum South Carolina was the planters, even though they were a minority of the population. Planters were Whites who owned 10 or more slaves and large amounts of land. To be a planter was the highest level of social achievement.
Planters' lives revolved around their families and the day-to-day operation of their plantations which they usually managed with the help of overseers. They produced a staple crop: rice in the Lowcountry, long staple cotton on the sea islands, and short staple cotton in the Upcountry.
The homes of the planters varied according to their wealth and taste. Few had statement mansions. Most lived in large, frame houses designed to provide relief from hot South Carolina summers. These houses were usually two stories tall with four rooms on each floor. Built or wood or brick on high ground, they had broad piazzas with sloping roofs to block the sun.
Education was very important to the planters. Young children studied with tutors and at private Academies. Planters' son attended college and their daughters went to finishing schools.
Religion was also significant in the lives of the planters. Most planters sere active members and supporters of the Episcopal church.
For entertainment, planters enjoyed dinner parties and balls. Cultural activities in Charleston, such as the theatre and concerts, were also very popular. Horse racing was the favorite sport. |