Economic inequality in Latin America and Africa, 1650 to 1950: Can a comparison of historical trajectories help to understand underdevelopment?

The present article provides a comparative review of historical economic inequality in the two most unequal regions world, namely Latin America and Africa. This contribution examines novel studies that provide quantitative estimates income and/or wealth continents terms sources, methods, results interpretations, focusing on period 1650 to 1950. shows although scholars have often employed similar methodologies, their are far from conforming uniform pattern. highlights how Africa tend remain geographically isolated, failing capture learning opportunities stemming work continental counterparts both sources methods.