- Fertile soil: Alabama's rich soil was ideal for growing cotton, which became one of the state's most important crops.
- Mild climate: Alabama's climate was mild and humid, which was well-suited for growing crops and for people to live in.
- Abundant resources: Alabama had an abundance of natural resources, including timber, minerals, and water, which made it an attractive place for people to settle.
- Economic opportunity: Alabama offered economic opportunities for settlers, including the chance to own land and to make a living from farming or other occupations.
- Political freedom: Alabama was a free state, which meant that settlers were not subject to the restrictions that they might have faced in other parts of the country.
- Religious freedom: Alabama was a tolerant state, which meant that settlers were free to practice their religion without fear of persecution.
These factors all contributed to Alabama's rapid growth in the 19th century. By 1860, Alabama was the 24th most populous state in the United States.
