What was one reason plantation owners believed Africans were suitable for their labor needs?

Plantation owners believed that Africans were suitable for their labor needs primarily because they were far from home, which significantly reduced the chances of escape. This geographical distance made it difficult for enslaved individuals to return to their native lands or find support among family and friends. The isolation created a reliance on the plantation system, where enslaved people were forced into labor under harsh conditions. This rationale reflected the owners' views on control and surveillance over the enslaved population, as the physical separation from their homelands contributed to the perception of Africans as a more manageable labor source for plantation work. The focus on reducing escape possibilities was a significant factor influencing the decision to enslave Africans for plantation labor.