What is the single most important element defining the lives of southern poor whites and yeoman farm

The most important element defining the lives of Southern poor whites and yeoman farmers was their independence and self-sufficiency. They were able to live their lives on their own terms and did not have to answer to anyone else. This sense of independence, combined with a strong sense of community and shared values, helped to reinforce their feelings of satisfaction, equality, and freedom.

The lives of Southern poor whites and yeoman farmers were defined by their independence and self-sufficiency. They owned small plots of land and worked alongside their families to cultivate crops and raise livestock. They were not dependent on the labor of others and did not own slaves, which set them apart from the wealthy planters who dominated Southern society.

Despite their economic struggles, poor whites and yeoman farmers generally felt satisfied, equal, and free because they were not beholden to anyone else. They were able to live their lives on their own terms and did not have to answer to anyone else. They also had a strong sense of community and shared values, which helped to reinforce their sense of independence and self-sufficiency.