MALARIA IN THE FAR NORTH OF CHILE: NEW INDICATIONS OF A PAST CALAMITY (ARICA, 1880-1930)

From a historical perspective, the development and the socio-demographic consequences of malaria in the Chilean city of Arica, expressed in a high mortality rate and the stagnation of population growth, are analysed. These features substantiated a set of policies and public sanitation and hygienization constructions elaborated by the state during the time of the 'chilenizacion'. Important works of that project were, among others, water purification and the construction of sewerage systems. Nevertheless, malaria continued affecting the population well into the 20th century when the measures of Juan Noe Crevani finally displayed positive results. The interpretation of historic sources (official, scientific and journalistic) illustrates how the dialectic nature-culture fostered social practices that were based on common sense knowledge. These were challenged by a national medicine that legitimized itself gradually during the period investigated.