[Spatial and ethnic differentiations of infant mortality: Quebec 1885-1971]

Area of Science:

• Demography
• Public Health History
• Epidemiology

Context:

• Examines infant mortality trends in Montreal and the Province of Quebec from 1885 to 1971.
• Utilizes civil registers, discussing data quality and reliability for historical analysis.
• Highlights the historical importance of infant mortality statistics in advocating for public health initiatives.

Purpose:

• To provide an overview of infant mortality evolution in Montreal and Quebec Province.
• To identify factors contributing to the differential decline in infant mortality rates.
• To analyze the influence of cultural context on infant mortality patterns.

Summary:

• Infant mortality rates in Montreal and Quebec showed a significant decline between 1885 and 1971.
• Cultural factors, such as ethnicity, played a role, with higher initial rates among French Canadian infants compared to British and Jewish populations.
• Declines were observed in rural areas between 1920-1930, followed by more rapid decreases overall.

Impact:

• Demonstrates the historical impact of public health interventions and socio-cultural factors on infant survival.
• Provides insights into the long-term demographic changes in Quebec.
• Establishes a foundation for understanding historical health disparities and their determinants.