For the most part, white southerners defended the "peculiar institution" whether or not they had slaves, whether they were rich or poor, and whether they lived on large plantations or small farms. Why was this the case?

The defense of slavery by white southerners was deeply ingrained in the culture and economy of the South. Slavery was seen as essential to the success and prosperity of the region, and many white southerners believed that their way of life depended on the institution. Additionally, the ideology of white supremacy played a significant role in justifying and perpetuating the "peculiar institution." This belief in the inherent superiority of white people over people of other races led to the widespread acceptance and defense of slavery, regardless of individual wealth or social status. Furthermore, the economic benefits of slavery, such as cheap labor and increased agricultural production, provided a strong incentive for white southerners to defend the institution. Overall, a combination of cultural, economic, and ideological factors contributed to the widespread defense of slavery by white southerners.