Famine's Devastating Impact on Cape Verde islands

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Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: 
3 min read

In 1861, Cabo Verde faced a devastating famine that resulted in a significant loss of life. The islands, heavily reliant on agriculture, were struck by a severe drought that led to crop failures and widespread food scarcity. The already fragile economy and lack of infrastructure exacerbated the situation, leaving many inhabitants without access to sufficient food. As food supplies dwindled, malnutrition and famine-related diseases spread rapidly across the archipelago. The most vulnerable, including children and the elderly, suffered the most, experiencing high mortality rates. The local communities, already struggling to cope with the harsh environmental conditions, were ill-equipped to handle the magnitude of the crisis. The famine of 1861 had long-lasting effects on the population of Cabo Verde, decimating families and communities. It also brought to light the vulnerabilities inherent in the islands' dependence on subsistence agriculture and the need for better disaster preparedness strategies. #CaboVerde #Famine #LossOfLife #Drought #DisasterPreparedness
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