The First Numbers of the Americas

This paper presents the first numbers on Spanish migration to Spanish America for the colonial period (1492-1830). We analyze quantitative patterns, geographic origins and destinations, gender, and migrant human capital. Drawing on a wide array of primary and secondary sources, we provide the first comprehensive dataset covering for the entire colonial period. This dataset opens new avenues for research on migrant networks, elite formation, social mobility, and the links between migration and long-run economic development.