This IM studies the demographic evolution of the Portuguese population from the perspective of historical demography and social history. The Group integrates researchers with distinct backgrounds, including History, Historical Demography, Sociology, Computer Science/Informatics, Biological Anthropology, and related fields.

Through microanalysis, biodemography, isonomic methods, as well as the crossing of several sources and methodologies, this GI seeks to offer new perspectives on Family History and Social History, contributing to the renewal of knowledge on social and demographic dynamics of the Portuguese population over time. Epidemic outbreaks, mortality rates, and morbidity are also the subject of investigation by members of the Group.

The GI has been developing interdisciplinary projects based on demographic data, with the goal of progressively incorporating local genealogical databases into a central, nationwide platform.

The work of this IM includes the study of demographic flows, biodemographic, rural and urban studies, as well as the analysis of population diversity and demographic transitions in different historical periods. The GOI crosses different sources of information and applies a new problematization to already existing sources, namely the parish registers.

It is intended that the Group’s activities will result in databases, demographic studies, forms of national and international cooperation, conferences, and the provision of expert advice.

The GOI will focus on community reconstitutions that generate societal impact. A focus on the study of pathologies, related to migration patterns, will provide relevant information for a better understanding of the Present. Priority will also be given to advanced training in biodemography.