Spanish Population Structure: 1900 vs. 2001
Option M
2. Spanish Population Structure (1900 & 2001)
Observe the figures showing the population structure by age and sex in Spain during 1900 and 2001, and answer the following:
a) Demographic Structure Models
1900: Triangular/Pagoda Shape (Old Demographic Regime)
- High birth rates (+35%)
- High mortality rates (+30%)
- Low population increase (<5%)
This model represents a young population (0-16 years old accounting for >35%) with a wide base due to high birth rates. The population decreases rapidly towards the top due to high mortality and low life expectancy. This resulted in high demand for jobs in a backward economy, leading to unemployment and emigration.
2001: Urn Shape (Current Demographic Regime – from 1975)
- Low birth rates (<15%)
- Low mortality rates (12-13%)
- Small population increase (2-3%)
This model indicates an aging population (+65 years old) with a narrow base due to low birth rates. The percentage of elderly is high (>12%) due to increased life expectancy. This leads to challenges related to pensions, healthcare, and social care for the elderly.
b) Population 65 and Over: Comparison
1900:
- Small percentage of elderly (<5%)
- Rapid population decline after 65 due to high mortality and low life expectancy
- Slightly more women than men over 65 due to higher male mortality
2001:
- High percentage of elderly
- High life expectancy (reaching 100+ years)
- Significantly more women than men over 65 due to higher male mortality
Spain has a high percentage of elders (30.85%) and a low percentage of young people (13.86%). This aging trend is due to medical advancements and improved quality of life, but it also leads to challenges in maintaining pension systems and providing healthcare.
c) Population 0-14 Years: Comparison
1900:
- High percentage of young people (>35%)
- High birth rates (>20%)
- More males born than females, but male mortality leads to equalization around 10-14 years
2001:
- Small percentage of young people
- Low birth rates (10.5%)
- Slight increase in 0-4 age group, possibly due to higher birth rates among immigrants
- More males born than females, but male mortality leads to equalization around 40-44 years
The current low birth rate is a result of various factors, including economic instability, precarious employment, difficulty balancing work and motherhood, changing societal values, and increased living standards. Governments may implement pro-natalist policies to encourage higher birth rates.