Development of regional variety of the biological standard of living in the Netherlands, 1812-1913.

This study focuses on regional patterns in stature in Dutch society during the 19th and early 20th century (1813-1913). To analyze regional patterns and transitions the HSN Database Giants is used. Results confirm that in the first period (1830-1860) differences in the biological standard of living were substantial. The less market-oriented inland provinces had the highest level. This is in line with the Komlos-hypothesis. The modernization of the Dutch economy in the second half of the 19th century was accompanied by a substantial increase in average height and a reversal of the spatial pattern of living standards as modernization was more important in the market oriented regions. Nevertheless, regional differences remained substantial and there was no pattern of convergence. Conscripts from the market-oriented coastal provinces took over the lead from the inland provinces. I tested for an urban premium during the last period (1890-1913). This was confirmed, although it did not manifest itself in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, but rather in medium-sized and small cities.