The views Caroline Lee Hentz expressed in the passage from The Planter's Northern Bride became popular throughout the South during the 19th century in response to which of the following developments? One thing is certain . . . that during our residence in the South, we have never witnessed one scene of cruelty or oppression [toward slaves] . . . more severe than parental authority would be justified in applying. . . .

On the contrary, we have been touched and gratified by the exhibition of affectionate kindness and care on one side, and loyal and devoted attachment on the other. We have been especially struck with the cheerfulness and contentment of the slaves. . . . We give it as our honest belief, that the negroes of the South are the happiest labouring class on the face of the globe. . . . The fugitives who fly to the Northern States are no proof against the truth of this statement. They have most of them been made disaffected by the influence of others—tempted by promises which are seldom fulfilled.

—Caroline Lee Hentz, The Planter's Northern Bride, 18544

The decline of the Southern agrarian lifestyle

The decrease in Southern political influence

The expansion of pro-French political opinions

The rise of Northern opposition to slavery