Consequences and History of Migration

Consequences of Internal Migration

Traditional internal migration has these impacts: demographic trends are responsible for imbalances in population distribution. Economically, it initially allowed an increase in population resources, but over time generated diseconomies because when younger and trained people left, productivity declined. Immigration to cities caused massive problems with housing, urban land use, and school places. Socially, assimilation problems occurred. Environmentally, in big cities, noise, etc., caused pollution problems.

The consequences of current internal migration include the aging of residential areas in central urban districts. Labor migration increases demographic and economic imbalances within provinces and autonomous regions. Rural return migration causes an aging population in receiving rural areas due to the return of retirees. Pendular movements (commuting) cause work-related circulatory problems (traffic) and increased entertainment revenues in receiving areas.

External Migration

External migration refers to the movement of population outside the country's borders.

Transoceanic Emigration

Transoceanic emigration went to Latin America and is distinguished by 2 Crisis and 2 Boom stages.

First Boom (19th Century to WWI)

Emigrants were Asturian, Galician, and Canarian, and their destinations were Argentina, Cuba, and Brazil. Emigration was caused by the agrarian structure in places of origin that prevented work and earning sufficient income.

Decline Between World Wars

Transoceanic emigration declined between the World Wars because of the insecurity created by World War I. The 1929 crisis affected South American countries and led them to establish quotas for immigrants. The Spanish Civil War and post-war period brought a shortage of transport and difficulties leaving the country.

Recovery (1945-1960s)

Between 1945 and the 1960s, overseas emigration recovered. Emigrants came from the same places, and destinations included Venezuela (for oil), Argentina, and Brazil. The profile of emigrants was now more qualified.

Decline Since 1960

Since 1960, emigration declined due to competition with migration to Europe.

Emigration to Europe

Mid-20th Century Phase

In the mid-20th century, many went to France. They were seasonal agricultural workers, construction workers, and women in domestic service. World War II ended this phase.

Period of Growth (1950-1973)

The period from 1950 to 1973 saw a significant increase in emigration to Europe. On Europe's part, rapid post-war reconstruction favored job offers. On Spain's part, emigration was stimulated by strong demographic growth and increased unemployment. Emigrants came from all regions. The profile was mainly unskilled men who did the hardest work.

Decline Since 1973

From 1973, with the Spanish Development Plan, emigration to Europe declined, and many emigrants returned.