The founders of Carolina hoped to create a society based on a feudal system, similar to that of medieval Europe. They envisioned a hierarchical society with a small ruling class of aristocrats who owned large land grants and controlled the majority of the colony's resources. The founders hoped to attract wealthy individuals to invest in the colony and establish plantations for cash crops, such as rice and indigo, using slave labor. However, the reality of the Carolina colony differed from their expectations in several ways: 1. Economic Diversity: Instead of focusing solely on cash crops, the colony's economy became more diverse, with settlers engaging in trade, fishing, and shipbuilding alongside agriculture. The presence of various economic activities contributed to a more balanced and stable economy. 2. Religious Freedom: The founders initially intended for the colony to be a refuge for Protestants persecuted in Europe, particularly for members of the Anglican Church. However, over time, the colony attracted settlers from various religious backgrounds, including Quakers, Huguenots, and Jews. This religious diversity led to the development of a more tolerant society. 3. Slavery: Although the founders anticipated the use of slave labor, the number of enslaved individuals in the colony initially remained relatively low. However, as time passed, the demand for slave labor increased, and Carolina eventually became a society heavily reliant on enslaved Africans for plantation labor. 4. Political Structure: The founders envisioned a hierarchical political system with the lords proprietors holding significant power. However, over time, the colonists became more involved in local governance and exerted influence through representative assemblies, leading to a more democratic system of government. Overall, the Carolina colony did not fully align with the founders' vision of a strictly feudal society. Instead, it developed into a more diverse and complex society, incorporating various economic activities, religious beliefs, and political structures.