Why was convict leasing tolerated for so long

Convict leasing was tolerated for so long because people realized that by using their services, labour would be made available for cheap costs.

Explanation:

Convict leasing was an indirect form of slavery, where people who were convicted of crimes and were jailed for the same were made to work in labour intensive activities. People realized that by using their services, labour would be made available for cheap costs.

This lead to an increase in the market for convicted labourers and leasing of convicted labourers. Although people did not pay attention to their health and lifestyle, it was seen as a profitable venture.