Wealth, Inequality, and Sex: The Changes in Female and Male Wealth of Nobility in Russia (the 1700s to the 1850s)

• In Event: Economic Policies and Demographic Changes

Abstract

I demonstrate that the distribution of female property across various regions of Russia shows a notable increase in the 18th century, rising from 10% to 40 %. However, this growth eventually plateaued and began to decline. By the late 19th century, the presence of women among the top landowners had continued to decrease, returning to levels similar to those at the start of the 18th century. This substantial surge in female property ownership during the 18th century occurred primarily due to the increasing frequency of women being designated heirs.

Author

• Elena Sergeevna Korchmina, U of Bologna (Italy)