Settlers for the empire: the demography of the Azores Islands (1766–1835)

Abstract

The Azores were one of the first territories to be settled in the Atlantic, after 1427. During the eighteen century the archipelago kept a relatively low mortality and high birth rates allowing periodic surplus of population. Azoreans were often enlisted by the Portuguese crown to occupy its empire. This text will present an overview of the structures and popu‑ lation movements of these islands, during the late ancien régime, a time when populations were understand as a resource for State policies, used in the control of colonial borders and in the implementation of economic activities.