2024/09/09 by Abad Martínez, Francisco Javier
#20th Century Spain #Child Abandonment #External Nursing #Foundling Homes #Infant Mortality
paper · doi:10.25365/adv.2024.9.8826
This article delves into the external nursing practices in Ávila during the 20th century, focusing on the abandonment of children in institutional care and the mortality rates associated with these practices. It explores the historical context and societal influences that led to the reliance on external nursing, particularly in rural areas. The study highlights the high mortality rates among infants in foundling homes (inclusas) and discusses how these institutions, despite their charitable intentions, often became precursors to death for many children due to poor living conditions and inadequate care. The introduction of hygienist movements in the 20th century, along with the development of transportation like railroads and automobiles, expanded the reach of foundling homes, facilitating the placement of children with rural wet nurses. However, this did little to mitigate the high mortality rates, which remained significantly elevated compared to the general population. The article also examines specific cases and legal proceedings related to child abandonment and neglect, shedding light on the severe consequences of these practices. By analyzing mortality data and historical records, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the dire situation faced by abandoned children and the systemic failures of the external nursing system.