The agriculture of the early modern low plain of Lombardy was one of the most developed in Europe. This did not eliminate the risk, partly because it was one of the most densely populated regions on the continent. The population and the Lombard authorities were therefore also concerned about the natural fluctuations in harvests, as they constantly monitored local production and supply channels. This article presents the main collective and ordinary farming risks experienced in early modern Lombardy. After providing a definition of risk connected with agricultural activities, it considers the different agricultural goals of the various social groups involved in primary production. At the same time, it analyses the various institutional and practical responses to agricultural risks.
Risk sharing in agriculture: institutions and practices of cooperation in early modern Lombardy
M. Di Tullio
2026-01-01
Abstract
The agriculture of the early modern low plain of Lombardy was one of the most developed in Europe. This did not eliminate the risk, partly because it was one of the most densely populated regions on the continent. The population and the Lombard authorities were therefore also concerned about the natural fluctuations in harvests, as they constantly monitored local production and supply channels. This article presents the main collective and ordinary farming risks experienced in early modern Lombardy. After providing a definition of risk connected with agricultural activities, it considers the different agricultural goals of the various social groups involved in primary production. At the same time, it analyses the various institutional and practical responses to agricultural risks.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
