What term is used to describe the South after the Civil War, emphasizing its shift away from dependence on slave labor?

The term "New South" is used to describe the transformation of the Southern United States after the Civil War, highlighting its shift towards a more diversified economy and a move away from the previous reliance on slavery. This period signaled significant changes in various aspects such as agriculture, industry, and urbanization. The New South concept encompassed efforts to modernize the economy through the introduction of new industries, attracting northern investors, and fostering a more robust infrastructure.

In contrast, the other options refer to specific geographic regions or features rather than a socio-economic concept. The Piedmont, Blue Ridge, and Appalachian Ridge and Valley regions are all physical geographic areas, but they do not capture the essence of the post-Civil War transformation that the term "New South" implies. The emphasis on economic and social changes characterizes the New South as a pivotal moment in Southern history, reflecting an adaptation to the realities of a new societal structure following the abolition of slavery.