The imperfections in statistics: Interpretations of causes of infant death in the Netherlands, 1875–1899

Abstract

Summary Mortality research benefits greatly from current digitisation efforts to make historical cause-of-death statistics available on a large scale. However, the use of these sources is notoriously difficult. Reclassification systems based on the present-day standard of the International Classification of Diseases have made the comparison of causes of death over space and time considerably easier. Yet they do not necessarily uncover the imperfections hidden in the original sources. In this study, a data set on causes of death amongst infants, based on recently digitised Dutch municipal cause-of-death registers published during the period between 1875 and 1899, takes centre stage. This study explores this unique source, its origins and the potential limitations its use may have for historical research on mortality in general and infant mortality, in particular, emphasising the ongoing need to carefully consider the historical context of these sources, particularly when they are used in quantitative studies.