Construction and problematization of Patagonia region in regional geographies of Argentina in the first half of the twentieth century.

Abstract

Land designated as Patagonia is a historical production in which process of construction Geography played an important role, especially after its institutionalization by the end of the nineteenth century. We intend to discuss some significant reference works in the construction of the regional Geography of Argentina in order to determine how it was incorporating the uniqueness of the Patagonian landscape to the representation of differences and asymmetries affecting the classic image of the intended national uniformity surrounding Pampean landscape. This integration puts stress on the representation of the Patagonian particularity and diversity with the idea of national unity naturalized of national territory, and even the internal diversity of Patagonia with its representation as a homogeneous region. It also reflects the political debate about the limits of expansion of agricultural export economy, the need for diversification of production and, later, the new profile of the planner State.