European Consumer Price Indices since 1870

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Abstract

This paper presents a database with the probably most up-to date and reliable consumer price indices for a large sample of European countries since 1870. The database is a compilation but a contribution by going back to original or ignored works. For some Eastern European countries, where CPIs have been missing, new provisional indices are constructed. It critically examines historical CPIs in oft-used online databases and uncover some alarming inaccuracies and even fallacies. Despite the importance of accurate CPIs in long-term analyses, previously little effort has been put in assessing the quality and comparability of data between countries. Realism of the CPIs is examined within a framework of economic integration, that qualifies received views. Lack of integration of Mediterranean countries before mid-twentieth century is validated, and contradictory patterns of integration in interwar and post-war Europe uncovered.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages56
Publication statusPublished - 2023

Publication series

NameLund Papers in Economic History
PublisherDepartment of Economic History, Lund University
No.2023:252

Subject classification (UKÄ)

  • Economic History

Free keywords

  • consumer price indices
  • cost of living
  • source criticism
  • economic integration
  • E31
  • N13
  • N14

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