A Distinct Example For The Mining-Urbanization Relationship: Balya

Abstract

Balya, one of the most popular cities in Turkey between 1840 and 1940 by means of mining, is far behind its glory today. During that period Balya, which attracted the attention of most of the European Companies, had become the initial city in many aspect, such as the electricity was first used there, the first municipality organization was founded,(in 1840), the first air pollution and the first strike were occurred. Balya termed a mining city was outstanding with its social and cultural structure and its lucrative commerce. There were hospitals, bars and cinema in the city but all of the structure changed when in 1939 the mine activities were closed. Most of the people migrate from the city and thus commerce, the social and cultural structure and the economic structure of the city were affected negatively. In Balya, one of the district of Balikesir Province, presently, main livelihood of the population of Balya depens on agriculture and stock raising. According to The Social and Economic Devolepment Report of Turkey in 2003, Balya is cited the 653rd order of 858 districts of Turkey and is found in last order of districts of Balikesir Province. In this study, population, social, economic changes of the Balya district is Presented and discussed.