Inter-Urban Dependency among Amazonian Cities: Urban Growth, Infrastructure Deficiencies, and Socio-Demographic Networks

Abstract

This paper examines the process of urbanization in the Brazilian Amazon with attention to the formation of inter-urban networks and their linkages to a regional urban system. Based on the integration of historical census, census micro-data (2000), and field research it examines Amazonian cities in terms foundation history, urban functions and services, population sizes, and employment. It also examines the emergence of subregional inter-urban networks through transportation and population movement. Three main arguments regarding Amazonian urbanization are discussed. 1) The lack of urban infrastructure in the Amazon is non-selective, affecting cities notwithstanding age, size, and location. 2) As a result, subregional inter-urban networks are emerging marked by the rise of node service cities in different parts of the region. 3) High rates of urbanization, dependency on subsidies, lack of industries and dominant informal economy points to limited prospects for short-term improvements in urban conditions and quality of life.