Who had the most power in the south before the civil war?

Before the Civil War, the most power in the South was held by wealthy plantation owners, often referred to as the "Southern aristocracy." These individuals controlled vast amounts of land and enslaved labor, which enabled them to dominate the economy and political landscape of the region. Their influence extended into state governments and the Democratic Party, shaping policies that upheld slavery and maintained their social status. This power structure was a key factor in the Southern resistance to abolitionist movements and the eventual secession from the Union.