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The long‐run agglomeration effects of early agriculture in Europe

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  • Andrew Dickens
  • Nils‐Petter Lagerlöf

Abstract

We study the effects of an early introduction of agriculture (Neolithic Transition) on modern agglomeration, using a new dataset on carbon dated organic materials found at archeological sites in Northern Europe. We find a positive effect of early agriculture, in particular within countries, which contrasts with a negative or zero correlation found in studies using older data, covering a larger region that includes both Europe and the Middle East. We argue that this reflects a mix of positive long‐run effects on urban agglomeration, and negative effects on state institutions, which show up to different degrees depending on context.

Suggested Citation

  • Andrew Dickens & Nils‐Petter Lagerlöf, 2023. "The long‐run agglomeration effects of early agriculture in Europe," Economic Inquiry, Western Economic Association International, vol. 61(3), pages 629-651, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:ecinqu:v:61:y:2023:i:3:p:629-651
    DOI: 10.1111/ecin.13140
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