#Econhist papers I (mostly) admire, July 2024
On maize, migrants, anti-Muslim sentiment, agglomeration, prostitution, fashion and what it takes to rule a kingdom...
Every month (since Aug 2023) I handpick and review ten standout papers on economic history. This month, I’ve added a complementary ChatGPT-generated pun! As a paid member, you’ll unlock exclusive access to the complete curated list. Previous lists: Aug 23, Sep 23, Oct 23, Nov 23, Dec 23, Jan 24, Feb 24, Mar 24, Apr 24, May 24, Jun 24.
1. Agricultural policy and crop location: Long-run output and spatial climate risk consequences
By Jan C. Greyling, Phillip G. Pardey and Senait Senay
Research Question: The paper examines how agricultural policies in South Africa have influenced the location and output of crop production, with a specific focus on corn, and how these changes have interacted with spatial climate risk over the long term. It seeks to understand the economic and environmental consequences of shifts in policy regimes from the early 20th century to the present.
Main Results: The study reveals that shifts in agricultural policy regimes significantly influenced the spatial distribution of corn production in South Africa, with notable impacts on crop output and climate risk. During the period of regulated marketing (1948-1987), corn production expanded into less suitable, riskier areas, leading to lower yields and greater exposure to climate variability. Post-deregulation, corn production retreated to more favourable areas, resulting in more stable yields and reduced climate risk.
Why did the South African farmer finally move his cornfields? Because the old policies had him planted in all the wrong places!
2. Activated history: The case of the Turkish sieges of Vienna
By Christian Ochsner and Felix Roesel
Research Question: The paper investigates whether historical events, specifically the Turkish sieges of Vienna in 1529 and 1683, can be activated by political campaigns to influence contemporary xenophobic sentiments and far-right voting behaviour. It aims to understand if historical narratives, when utilized by populist movements, can mobilize beliefs and actions against modern-day ethnic and religious groups.
Main Results: The study reveals that anti-Muslim sentiments and far-right voting increased significantly in Austrian municipalities that were attacked by Turkish troops, particularly after the mid-2000s populist campaigns. There was no significant difference in voting patterns between attacked and non-attacked municipalities before these campaigns. The presence of Turkish communities in these areas decreased as a result of the heightened xenophobia. The research highlights how historical narratives, when activated by political campaigns, can have immediate and substantial effects on social and political behaviour.
Why did the battle story join the election campaign? Because it knew how to siege an opportunity!
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