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Using Digitized Newspapers to Refine Historical Measures: The Case of the Boll Weevil

Author

Listed:
  • Andreas Ferrara
  • Joung Yeob Ha
  • Randall Walsh

Abstract

This paper shows how to remove attenuation bias in regression analyses due to measurement error in historical data for a given variable of interest by using a secondary measure which can be easily generated from digitized newspapers. We provide three methods for using this secondary variable to deal with non-classical measurement error in a binary treatment: set identification, bias reduction via sample restriction, and a parametric bias correction. We demonstrate the usefulness of our methods by replicating two recent studies on the effect of the boll weevil. Relative to the initial analysis, our results yield markedly larger coefficient estimates.

Suggested Citation

  • Andreas Ferrara & Joung Yeob Ha & Randall Walsh, 2022. "Using Digitized Newspapers to Refine Historical Measures: The Case of the Boll Weevil," NBER Working Papers 29808, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:29808
    Note: DAE
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    JEL classification:

    • N01 - Economic History - - General - - - Development of the Discipline: Historiographical; Sources and Methods

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