The transport by carts, a rural activity in the Modern Castile. The case of Almodóvar del Pinar in the 17th and 18th centuries

Abstract

Almodóvar del Pinar was, in the middle of the 18th century, one of the main cart towns in Castile, an activity which at that time appeared to be almost exclusive of its inhabitants. Studying specifically the notarial deeds in a serial manner, we can observe the gradual constitution of the cartage activity from the end of the 16th century and its rapid development during the first years of the following century. Despite the economic and demographic difficulties of the 17th century and some more or less lasting ups and downs, the road haulage industry remained at a high level, taking advantage of the situation, especially the wars which offered important opportunities to the road hauliers. This is one of the reasons that could explain why a town like Almodóvar del Pinar became a “road town”. The monarchical demand during the military conflicts explains more the consolidation of the carters.