Missões Jesuítas no Sul do Brasil: 400 anos de Legado Econômico

The economic history of societies requires consistent analysis and evaluation of the phenomena and facts of human evolution. The Jesuit Missions constituted a unique experience of their time. This study aims to identify the economic elements introduced by the Jesuits in southern Brazil between 1626 and 1756 and to assess, based on current economic data, possible connections that persist almost 400 years later. The results indicate the presence of strong economic identity and legacy, where at least 50% of the products from that period are still produced in each municipality, and 22% of current production is based on products originating in the 17th century. The analysis of productive diversity suggests that a 1% increase in population generates six new products. The method employed is quali-quantitative, of a historical-interpretative nature, and includes statistical analysis of 66,499 observations of current products.