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Ancient nomadic corridors and long-run development in the highlands of Asia

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  • Paik, Christopher
  • Shahi, Keshar

Abstract

In this paper we explore the long-run settlement and economic activities in the highlands of Asia. The highland terrains uniquely determined seasonal migration paths by nomadic pastoralists (so called “nomadic corridors”), along which trade routes and settlements formed. Using simulated nomadic corridors as a proxy for ancient transportation networks, we study how closely contemporary economic activities remain around these routes. We find that in the highlands, the ancient routes are associated with positive economic outcomes in the long run; trade hubs along the routes continued to draw people and are more populated today relative to other areas in the region.

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  • Paik, Christopher & Shahi, Keshar, 2023. "Ancient nomadic corridors and long-run development in the highlands of Asia," Explorations in Economic History, Elsevier, vol. 89(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:exehis:v:89:y:2023:i:c:s0014498322000602
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eeh.2022.101482
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    1. Alireza Naghavi & Mohsen Shaeyan, 2023. "Qanats," Development Working Papers 486, Centro Studi Luca d'Agliano, University of Milano, revised 16 Jan 2024.
      • Alireza Naghavi & Mohsen Shaeyan, 2023. "Qanats," Working Papers 2307, Gutenberg School of Management and Economics, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz.

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