What was the main cash crop in Georgia historically?

The main cash crop in Georgia historically is cotton. This is primarily due to the state's favorable climate and soil conditions that were ideal for cotton cultivation. During the 19th century, especially before the Civil War, cotton became a crucial part of Georgia's economy and the South as a whole. The invention of the cotton gin in the late 18th century revolutionized cotton processing, making it easier to separate the fibers from the seeds, which greatly increased production rates.

Cotton's prominence was further enhanced by the establishment of plantation systems that relied heavily on enslaved labor, leading to significant social, economic, and cultural ramifications for the region. The phrase "King Cotton" encapsulated the crop's dominance in the Southern economy, underscoring its importance as a primary export and the driving force behind agricultural development in Georgia.

While tobacco, rice, and wheat were grown in Georgia, none matched the scale and economic impact of cotton, particularly during the antebellum period when the crop was synonymous with the region's identity and economy.