DT 18 - 24 Distribución y composición de la riqueza en la república temprana. Montevideo 1830-1860

This article presents an analysis of the level, composition, and distribution of wealth in Montevideo during 1830 and 1860. The study employed probate records from the period in question (n=116) and three population registers of 1836, 1843, and 1858 as its primary sources of data. The combination of these two data sets allowed for a representative analysis of a substantial proportion of the population. The period is distinguished by notable institutional instability, a regional war, and the process of state formation in Latin America.

The main findings of this study are: there was a notable decline in wealth levels during the Guerra Grande (the Great War); inequality increased towards the end of the period; and the asset portfolios of Montevideo’s wealthiest individuals diversified in 1858. This study contributes to the existing literature on premodern wealth inequality in Latin America and long-term inequality research.

Keywords: Pre-industrial inequality, wealth distribution, Latin America, 19th Century