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The Columbian Exchange and conflict in Asia

Author

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  • Dincecco, Mark

    (University of Michigan)

  • Fenske, James

    (University of Warwick)

  • Menon, Anil

    (University of Michigan)

Abstract

Difference in difference and event study analyses in a panel of Asian grid cells over nine centuries demonstrate that greater agricultural potential due to New World crops increased violent conflict after 1500. Rising caloric potential in a typical grid cell increased conflict by roughly its mean. The result holds across several New World crops and conflict types. It is largely driven by South Asia, a densely populated, diverse region with several competing historical states. The evidence supports a rapacity effect – increases in the gains from appropriation to Asian and non-Asian belligerents – as a mechanism. Population density, urbanization, and British imperialism significantly mediate the impact of the Columbian Exchange.

Suggested Citation

  • Dincecco, Mark & Fenske, James & Menon, Anil, 2020. "The Columbian Exchange and conflict in Asia," CAGE Online Working Paper Series 527, Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy (CAGE).
    • Handle: RePEc:cge:wacage:527
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    File URL: https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/soc/economics/research/centres/cage/manage/publications/wp527.2020.pdf
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    1. Fenske, James & Kala, Namrata & Wei, Jinlin, 2023. "Railways and cities in India," Journal of Development Economics, Elsevier, vol. 161(C).

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