How did geography shape slavery in the 13 colonies?

Most people associate slavery with the American South. However, slaves were utilized in the Caribbean, as well as in all parts of the original colonies and territories that later became the United States. From the time Christopher Columbus (1451–1506) arrived in the Caribbean in 1492, Caribbean Indians were enslaved to work in mines and on plantations. Later, the Spanish began importing African slaves to work the sugar plantations. Because sugar crops required quick processing to avoid spoilage, Caribbean slave life was much harsher than that of slaves in North America. Nineteen-hour days and harsh working conditions led to disease and high death rates. Rather than improve conditions, plantation owners simply increased the number of slaves they imported.