Introduction
In the 19th century, the majority of the world's population, specifically more than 95%, lived in conditions often classified as poverty. This historical reality is a stark contrast to the current global economic landscape, where, by various metrics, the average poor person's living standards have surpassed those of the middle class of the 1950s.
A Global Snapshot in 1820
My mother, born in 1900 in London, England, lived a life marred by extreme poverty, a reality that was the norm for most people until after World War II. This historical context provides us with a clear understanding of the conditions people faced in the early 19th century, particularly in 1820 when the majority of the world's population likely resided in poverty.
Defining Poverty
The term "poverty" is subject to definition. For instance, if the minimum number of calories required for human sustenance is not met, individuals below this threshold are considered "poor." However, the definition can also encompass a range of factors such as the availability of living space, access to medical care, and the prevalence of preventable illnesses.
For instance, without running hot water or central heating systems, a significant portion of the population lived with severe living conditions. There were no luxury amenities like lap robes for comfort, as heating was only within close proximity to fireplaces or cookstoves. These conditions significantly impacted daily life and overall well-being.
Comparative Living Conditions Today
Today, by various metrics, the average poor person's living standards are comparable to the average middle-class person in the 1950s. In many developed countries, poor individuals now have access to electricity, running water, and basic sanitation, which were luxuries in the 19th century.
For example, the average poor person today has access to medical care that, while not without flaws, is significantly more advanced compared to the rudimentary medical practices of the 1800s. Additionally, poor individuals today rarely experience the extreme cold or malnutrition that was common in the past, thanks to modern heating systems and food distribution.
The Rich and the Rest: A Comparative Analysis
The average richest person in the world does not live in the same manner as the average person in the developed world today. In the past, even the wealthiest individuals, like the subjects in portraits, often adopted the same modest living conditions as the poor due to the limited heat sources. Today, the wealthiest individuals enjoy modern amenities such as indoor heating, air conditioning, and sophisticated medical care.
Moreover, the richest person today cannot compare to the living conditions of the average poor person in 1820, as modern amenities provide a level of comfort and convenience that was nonexistent in the past. The few rich individuals lived within a small, heated area of their home, such as around the fireplace or cookstove, making the rest of the house cold and uncomfortable.
Healthcare in the Past and Present
One significant difference between past and present is the prevalence of preventable illnesses such as pneumonia and deaths due to lack of fuel for stoves or fireplaces. The health care of the 19th century was vastly different, with fewer antibiotics, vaccines, and advanced medical practices. Today, poor individuals have access to medical care that, while not perfect, is better than what the middle class of the past could access.
It's fascinating to consider the evolution of poverty and living conditions over time. The historical context we have today provides a valuable perspective on how far societies have come in addressing poverty and improving living standards. It also highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring equitable access to basic necessities and improving the quality of life for all individuals.
Conclusion
Overall, it is almost certain that over 95% of the world's population in 1820 lived in poverty. This historical reality is a poignant reminder of how far societies have come in addressing poverty and improving living standards. The evolution of living conditions over the past two centuries is a testament to the ongoing efforts to reduce inequality and provide a better quality of life for all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status.