The "Plantation Era" refers to a period in American history, primarily from the 17th to the 19th centuries, when large-scale agricultural plantations were established, particularly in the Southern states. These plantations primarily grew cash crops like cotton, tobacco, and sugar, which were labor-intensive and required a significant workforce. During this time, the economy heavily relied on enslaved people who were forcibly brought from Africa to work on these plantations. The system of plantation agriculture contributed to the wealth of plantation owners and played a crucial role in shaping social, economic, and political dynamics in the United States, leading to significant historical events, including the Civil War.