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The paradox of “Malthusian urbanization”: urbanization without growth in the Republic of Genoa, 1300–1800
[Reversal of fortune: geography and institutions in the making of the modern world income distribution]

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  • Luigi Oddo
  • Andrea Zanini

Abstract

This paper investigates the relationships between urbanization and long-term economic growth in the pre-industrial world. To this end, we compiled a novel dataset collecting all currently available data on urban and rural populations in an Italian pre-unification state, the Republic of Genoa. Data show the paradoxical coexistence of high urbanization levels with cyclical Malthusian stagnations. Putting together empirical results and historical evidence, we interpreted this puzzle, highlighting how a high degree of urbanization could be the consequence of widespread poverty, rather than a measure of rising standards of living. To describe this phenomenon, we coined the term “Malthusian urbanization”.

Suggested Citation

  • Luigi Oddo & Andrea Zanini, 2022. "The paradox of “Malthusian urbanization”: urbanization without growth in the Republic of Genoa, 1300–1800 [Reversal of fortune: geography and institutions in the making of the modern world income d," European Review of Economic History, European Historical Economics Society, vol. 26(4), pages 508-534.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:ereveh:v:26:y:2022:i:4:p:508-534.
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1093/ereh/heab027
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