southern ways

The first thing that struck me in the chapter is how cotton was over half of all exports in the U.S. in 1860.  I knew it was a big deal, but I never knew how important it was to the United States economy.  I though it was odd that after Nat Turner led a slave rebellion there was much done to end slavery.  In the South I think it worsened the chances of freedom!  I think it is so horrible that plantation women had to help raise the children her husband had with another women!!!  I really do not think I could do that.  I can not image watching a kid grow up that everyday reminded me my husband cheated on me.  What a horrible feeling to have all your life.  I also thought the part about the slave families being torn apart was just awful.  It said that I one life time a slave would see 11 family member be sold or traded.