The Life of a Commodity Group 2 by Audrey Ke Zhao

Tobacco - Stage 1

2025-07-14 22:31:51 UTC

Tobacco was grown in various locations across the Americas, such as the Caribbean and the Chesapeake Bay region. It was primarily grown by enslaved Africans. Growing tobacco requires more labor and effort than other cash crops. The living conditions of the slaves were poor. The British empire produced the most tobacco and helped grow the tobacco industry. This occurred at the same time as the British slave trade, which was used to help grow more tobacco.

Tobacco trade - stage 3

chsmitch — 2025-07-14 22:33:25 UTC

Tobacco was grown in the Americas and was moved on trade ships that brought this crop back to Europe. English and other European traders traded for tobacco and sold it across Europe. From Europe tobacco and its various products eventuallyt made its way to the Asian landmass. Goods that were traded for tobacco include enslaved people, tools, and other goods not produced in the Americas. Tobacco was a valuable cash crop.

Tobacco - Stage 2

2025-07-14 22:39:53 UTC

Once harvested, the tobacco leaves were dried and cured. This drying process could take up to a few months. There are different methods of curing that alter how and where the leaves dry, such as in the sun or in a barn. After the curing process, the leaves are separated from the stems. The leaves are then cut into different shapes and sizes depending on what the tobacco will be used for. For pipe smoking, thin strips of tobacco are typically preferred. Processing tobacco was mainly performed by both slaves and indentured servants on plantations.

Tobacco users - stage 4

chsmitch — 2025-07-14 22:40:30 UTC

Around the late 1700's tobacco was consumed by a variety of people and was not limited by social class. The producers or laborers of tobacco were enslaved people on plantations. Tobacco was a cash crop and as such it was highly valuable to those who grew and sold the crop.