Resumo

RIOJAS, Carlos. Desafíos para el estudio de la dinámica demográfica en Jalisco durante el siglo XIX. Pap. poblac [online]. 2000, vol.6, n.26, pp.221-247. ISSN 2448-7147.

The object of the paper is to show the main methodological problems for any study of the demographic history of Jalisco in the 19^th century, and to indicate possible solutions. The author identifies three challenges which have to be taken into account when setting the goals of such a study. The first is theoretical: any conclusions must be substantiated by empirical evidence, and in particular facts about the role of the population in the economy and more especially in industrialization. The second challenge is to make sure that the sources used are acceptable for making a systematic study of population growth during the period. Finally, the influence of previous hypothesis on this kind of study: the give us answers but at the same time beg a number of new questions. The paper concludes that none of these objections has sufficient weight to impede the systemic and serious study of the population of Jalisco in the 19^th century.