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Art.II. Remarks on the Numerical Changes of the Popu~ 

 lation of Great Britain, as divided into the Classes of Agri- 

 culturists, Manufacturers, and non-productive Labourers, 

 during the period from 1811 to 1821. .% George Harvey, 

 Esq., M.G.S., M.A.S.,$c. #c. 



[Communicated by the Author.] 

 The numerical changes which particular branches of a com- 

 munity undergo, in the progress of time, are to be classed among 

 the most remarkable phenomena with which we are surrounded ; 

 and may be regarded as the ultimate result of that great chain of 

 causes, which is in perpetual operation to alter and diversify the 

 condition of man. In a society, exposed to the uncertain tide of 

 political events, it is interesting to trace the mutations which some 

 of its greater divisions disclose, as causes, more or less favour- 

 able, operate upon them ; — how, for example, at one period, or in 

 some particular districts, the manufacturing part of a community 

 increases in numbers, in happiness, and prosperity ; and how, at 

 other times, and in other districts, indications of an opposite kind 

 may be traced ; — commerce imparting vigour at one season, and at 

 another exhibiting only the feeblest influences of its power. So 

 likewise the condition of an agricultural population changes ; and 

 shades of prosperity may be discovered in a singular variety of 

 forms. 



Such uncertainties must necessarily impart their influence to 

 population. The principle of subsistence, which, without impro- 

 priety, may be said to govern and control all the primary move- 

 ments of man, will operate as a perpetual stimulus, and compel 

 him to migrate from one branch of a society, or from one country 

 to another, until he finds a station suited to his wants. 



To this principle may be referred the numerical changes which 

 the three divisions of the inhabitants of Great Britain have under- 

 gone, during the period from 181 1 to 1821. The divisions here 

 alluded to are those prescribed by the Act for ascertaining the 

 population ; consisting, 1°. of families engaged in agriculture ; 



