Poverty, wealth and hierarchy in local society (Minas Gerais, 19th century)

The article analyzes the economic and social hierarchy in Rio Pardo, in the province of Minas Gerais. The main economic resources are observed in their distribution between three social groups. The analysis concentrates on two periods, taking as reference the slave labor, which influenced the level of production of wealth. It is noted the unequal social distribution of the wealth between a group of wealthy people, a group of people of mid-level wealth and a large group of poor people. The economic and social inequality between rich people and poor people originated a hierarchy, which was attenuated by the existence of the median group.

poverty; wealth; social hierarchy; Minas Gerais; 19th century