Urban primacy and deconcentrated development in Peru

Abstract

Of the many aspects which influence Third World urban systems, the historical role of large metropolitan areas as the centers of political and economic power is particularly important. In this detailed study of the evolution and development of Peru's urban system, the complex interactions among social, economic, historical, and political forces will be demonstrated as they affect urban primacy. In spite of the considerable growth of secondary cities in Peru since 1940, Lima remains the dominant city in the urban hierarchy of Peru. Nevertheless, the data presented here indicates that urban primacy in Peru peaked in 1961 and has declined since then. Although it still exists, the pattern of primacy in Peru is currently less conspicuous than in previous years. The growth of population and the expansion of economic activities in coastal cities have been particularly important in building a more balanced urban system in Peru.