How did men's roles in Mallorca's economy shift from agriculture to service industries over time?

Over the course of the 20th century, Mallorca experienced a significant shift in the roles of men within its economy, moving away from traditional agriculture towards the increasingly dominant service industries. Historically, Mallorca’s economy was largely agrarian, with men primarily engaged in farming, livestock rearing, and related rural activities. The island’s fertile land supported crops such as olives, almonds, and vineyards, and men’s work was centered around these agricultural practices, which were integral to local communities and livelihoods. This rural lifestyle shaped much of Mallorca’s social and economic fabric for generations.

However, as the century progressed, the development of tourism transformed Mallorca’s economic landscape. The island’s picturesque coastlines, mild climate, and cultural heritage attracted visitors from across Europe, prompting rapid growth in the hospitality sector. Men who might have traditionally worked in fields and farms increasingly found employment in hotels, restaurants, transport, and construction related to tourism infrastructure. This transition created new job opportunities that were often more stable and better paid than seasonal farm labor.

The rise of service industries also brought about an evolution in skills and work environments for Mallorcan men. Many adapted by acquiring customer service skills and languages to interact with international tourists, marking a notable shift from manual rural work to more diverse urban and semi-urban employment. This economic transformation contributed to the modernization of the island, altering social dynamics and facilitating a broader integration into global markets. Despite this shift, agriculture remains a valued part of Mallorca’s culture and economy, though it now plays a less dominant role in men’s employment compared to the booming service sector.