Spanish Demographic and Economic Shifts (1877-1930)
Demographic Change in Spain (1877-1930)
The Demographic Transition
The demographic transition was a phenomenon common to all countries that underwent industrialization. It was characterized by falling birth rates and mortality rates. Between 1877 and 1930, mortality decreased due to improved feeding, urban infrastructure, lower incidence of disease, and greater cleanliness and hygiene. Average life expectancy increased.
Birth rates also increased as a result of increased urbanization and rationality
Read MoreSpanish Agriculture: Regional Specialization and Agrarian Structure
Spanish Agriculture: Regional Specialization
Agriculture in Spain is characterized by regional specialization due to diverse natural conditions. The country’s varied physical environment results in significant contrasts across regions.
Physical Factors Influencing Agriculture
Relief
Spain’s relief is characterized by a high average altitude and steep slopes, which promote erosion and make mechanization difficult.
Climate
The climate is characterized by low and erratic rainfall, with a strong contrast
Read MoreSpanish Industrialization: A Historical Analysis
Industrialization in Spain
Stages of Industrialization (1850-Present)
1. Beginning of Industrialization (1850-1900)
Causes of Slow Growth:
- Low Population & Purchasing Power: Limited domestic demand hindered industrial expansion.
- Delayed Industrial Process: Lack of raw materials, energy sources, technological and scientific backwardness, lack of capital, political unrest, the War of Independence, the Carlist Wars, regime changes, and the loss of colonies all contributed to delays.
- Minifundismo: Small-
Agricultural Terms: Latifundio, Fishing, and More
Agricultural Terms Explained
Latifundio
A latifundio is a large land ownership, traditionally characterized by absentee ownership, extensive cultivation, low yields, and a large number of laborers facing severe seasonal unemployment and illiteracy.
Smallholder
Smallholder refers to small properties or farms. This can prevent competitive agriculture and tends to disappear or be mitigated through land consolidation policies.
Deep Sea Fishing
Deep sea fishing takes place in waters with fishing boats and
Read MoreKey Agricultural Terms: CAP, LEADER, and More
Key Agricultural Terms and Concepts
LEADER: European Project started in 1991 for rural areas affected by the conversion generated by the CAP. It provides grants to create innovative solutions targeted at areas that can serve as models to other areas.
CAP (Common Agricultural Policy): Established by the EU to place their products in international markets, moving from a situation of supply to another large surplus.
Maastricht Treaty: The EU Treaty which entered into force in 1993. In it, the European
Read MoreKey Factors Influencing Agricultural Spaces
Physical Factors of Agricultural Fields
- Sunny and Shady Slopes: Slope orientation affects sunlight exposure, influencing crop suitability.
- Rainfall: Optimal rainfall ranges between 900mm and 1200mm for many crops.
- Thermal Gradient: Temperature decreases approximately 6°C for every 100m increase in altitude.
- Wind Exposure: Strong winds can damage crops.
- Slope Inclination: Flat or gently sloping surfaces are easier to farm.
- Adverse Weather: Events like hail can cause catastrophic damage to crops.
- Soil: