"This paper applies regression decomposition procedures to the infant mortality decline in Germany 1871-1925.... Data concern 59 administrative areas at seven times.  In contrast to contemporary less developed countries, little of this historical infant mortality decline is explained either by changes in the relationships between infant mortality and the variables considered here or by exogenous factors.  Rather, trends in variable values account for most of the decline.  Smaller family size and more hygienic child care improved living conditions for infants, thereby increasing their survivorship." (SUMMARY IN FRE AND ITA)