Quebec population resources: Towards an integrated infrastructure of historical microdata (1621-1965)

More than 40 years ago, two major databases based on the digitization and linkage of Quebec parish records were initiated by the PRDH and the BALSAC Project. More recently, Quebec data from the Canadian historical censuses (prior to 1921) have also been digitized and formatted in databases. We now intend to build an infrastructure to compile this historical microdata on the Quebec population with the objective of preserving, highlighting and developing this unique historical and scientific heritage. The creation of this infrastructure will: 1) offer a longer period of observation which will enhance research opportunities; 2) encourage comparative and multisectoral research as well as collaborations both at the national and international levels; 3) facilitate integration of new data and development of new tools for linkage and analyses; 4) promote scientific expertise and training in relevant disciplines. In this poster, we will describe the steps involved in the construction of the infrastructure, the content of the resulting database as well as provide some insights on the challenges and issues involved in this endeavour. Lastly we will give an overview of the research opportunities that will emerge both for the social and the biological sciences.