Inequality in Land Distribution: Agricultural Activity in Paraná in the Early Decades of the 20th Century

Objective: This study analyzes the specialization of agricultural production and the degree of land concentration in Paraná using primary data from the 1920 Census. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework encompasses the agrarian structure and the colonization of the state, considering factors such as the sesmaria land system, the Land Law of 1850, and European immigration, which influenced land distribution and regional productive dynamics. Method: The method employs a quantitative approach, using the Gini coefficient to measure inequality in land distribution and the Specialization Index to assess the concentration of agricultural production. Results and Discussion: The findings indicate a significant concentration of land in large properties, suggesting an unequal land structure despite the agricultural diversification driven by immigration. This scenario highlights the importance of public policies aimed at ensuring equitable land access and promoting diversified agricultural production. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by utilizing primary data from Brazil’s first agricultural census. This census holds unique importance, as no such data was available before this period. Given the historical transformations in Brazilian agriculture, the 1920 Census provides a broad overview of agricultural production and land concentration in Brazil at the time. Analyses of the indicators and data derived from this census complement the economic history of Paraná and Brazil, filling gaps regarding agricultural specialization and land concentration in the early 20th century.