Significant Cash Crop in the Southern Colonies

The Southern Colonies, established in North America during the colonial period, were significantly shaped by their geographical and climatic conditions. These regions often enjoyed a warm climate with long growing seasons, which were favorable for certain types of agriculture. As a result, the economies of these colonies tended to revolve heavily around cash crops. Understanding the kind of crops that were primarily grown in the Southern Colonies can provide insight into their economic structures.

Which crop was the most significant cash crop in the Southern Colonies during the 17th and 18th centuries?