What significant economic transformation does the term "New South" emphasize?

The term "New South" emphasizes a significant economic transformation marked primarily by the transition to manufacturing. This concept emerged in the late 19th century, particularly after the Reconstruction Era, when the Southern states sought to redefine their economies moving away from the agrarian-based systems that had dominated before the Civil War.

During this time, leaders and reformers advocated for the development of a more industrialized economy. This transformation included investments in factories, railroads, and urban centers, creating a shift from the reliance solely on agricultural products to a diversification of economic activities that included textiles, tobacco, and other manufacturing sectors. This modernization was not just about industrial production but also involved changes in labor practices, as the workforce moved from farms to factories, reflecting broader economic trends that were occurring in the United States as a whole.

In summary, the New South represents a period where the South sought to rise economically by embracing manufacturing, marking a significant departure from its pre-Civil War economy that was predominantly rooted in agriculture.