Abstract

• The population of Lower Myanmar was estimated at 1.43 million in 1852. Its population rose from 2,747,148 in 1872 to 8,917,733 in 1941. The main basis of urbanization in Lower Myanmar is the statistical records given in the Census Reports of Burma from 1872. The decennial census reports are available from 1872 to 1931 and a few figures from the 1941 census report relating to population of some large towns. The proportion of urban population to total population declined from 1881 to 1921. The urban population has been increased during 1921 to 1931 than previous time. Urbanization in Myanmar has been influenced by a number of basic economic factors. The pull of agricultural expansion dominated in the influence of urban development and the rate of urbanization actually declined. This paper outlines the demographic patterns and social structure of colonial Myanmar society in Lower Myanmar. In addition the decennial census of Myanmar undertaken by the British will be analyzed and interpreted.