Demographic trends in Latin Americas metropolises 1950-1990.

Abstract

This book chapter traces demographic trends in megacities in Latin America during 1950-90. The analysis includes a discussion of trends in the pace of urban growth trends in migration and natural increase and changes in the spatial distribution of population. The analysis focuses on Bogota Buenos Aires Lima Mexico City Rio de Janeiro Santiago and Sao Paulo cities with over 4 million people in 1990. During 1950-90 urban population grew from 59 million to 306 million. The pace of urbanization the distribution of urban population city size and growth rates varied among countries. Urbanization took place early in Argentina and Chile and occurred during the 1930s. Colombia has a balanced urban system while Argentina Peru and Chile have urban populations concentrated in capital cities. Sao Paulo Mexico City and Buenos Aires had over 10 million inhabitants in 1990. The annual growth rate over a 40-year period was 2% in Buenos Aires 4% in Mexico City and Sao Paulo and over 5% in Bogota and Lima. Population growth is increasing in secondary cities. However slower growth in megacities does not eliminate the problems associated with the large population size. Rapid urban growth was first caused by migration and later by natural increase. Migration was fueled by import-substitution manufacturing imbalances in exchange rates and the disintegration of traditional agriculture. Recent development that favored export production freer trade and freer markets shifted the balance between urban and rural areas. Urban population is comprised of increasing numbers of working age population and more women than men. Over 40 years cities expanded spatially and growth in central core areas declined. Transportation links led to business investment in secondary centers. Improved economic conditions quality of life and urban management could revive the slower megacity growth patterns of the 1980s.