In 1860 cotton production became more efficient and more what?

In 1860, cotton production became more efficient and more profitable due to advancements in technology, such as the cotton gin, which sped up the process of separating cotton fibers from seeds. This efficiency led to an increase in cotton output, making it a staple cash crop in the Southern United States. Additionally, the demand for cotton surged, particularly from textile mills in Britain and the Northern U.S., further enhancing its economic significance. The increased profitability of cotton solidified its role in the region's economy and contributed to the entrenchment of slavery.