THE ROLE OF THE STATE IN SHAPING WOMENS AND MENS ENTRANCE INTO THE LABOR-MARKET - SPAIN IN THE 18TH AND 19TH-CENTURIES

This article examines the first stages in the formation of a gender-se gregated labour market in Spain. It is argued that the demand for labo ur and the supply of labour were important determinants of this segreg ation, with the needs of individual families shaping the gender struct ure of the supply of labour while the demand for labour was influenced by external factors such as the laws of the state, local regulations, and religion. Detailed consideration is given to three elements of th e relationship between emerging labour markets and the Spanish state: the ideological basis of state policies in relation to the role of men and women as workers; the specific laws, regulations and policies ado pted by the state and local institutions; and the role of the state as an employer.