Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Caribbean History Practice Exam

Plantation owners played a pivotal role in shaping the social structure of the Caribbean during the colonial era. They were among the wealthiest and most influential individuals in society, primarily due to their control over the lucrative sugar trade. This wealth allowed them to establish a distinct social hierarchy where they occupied the upper echelons of society, often intermarrying with other powerful families, solidifying their status.

Additionally, plantation owners governed the labor force, which consisted mainly of enslaved Africans, and wielded substantial power in both economic and political arenas. Their decisions affected not only their plantations but also the broader social, economic, and political conditions of the islands. They often had considerable sway over colonial policies and local governance, reinforcing their dominance within the social structure.

In contrast, the other options highlight aspects that do not accurately reflect the significant standing of plantation owners. The notion that they had little influence over slave management disregards their direct involvement in supervising and controlling enslaved labor. The idea that they were marginalized misrepresents their prominent role, as they were central figures in the colony's economy and social hierarchy. Furthermore, focusing solely on crop production overlooks the broader impacts of their wealth and influence on society, including their involvement in governance and the formation of social