The Cotton Kingdom (book)

"The Cotton Kingdom" by Edward L. Ayers explores the central role of cotton in shaping 19th-century America, particularly the American South. It examines how the rise of cotton farming fueled economic growth, urban development, and technological innovation, while also entrenching slavery and social inequalities. The book provides a detailed history of the region’s transformation, highlighting the complex interplay between agriculture, industry, and society. Through narratives and analysis, it illustrates how cotton became both an economic engine and a symbol of profound cultural and moral conflicts in American history.