Lombardy’s Development in the Long 19th Century

The chapter outlines the essential characteristics of the Lombard economy between the end of the 18th century and WWI. Its rich agriculture, the variety of economic activities, and productive structure with specialised and complementary poles generated intense internal exchanges. But the main driving force behind the economic development was the relationship with northern Europe, with which the region had many strong trade links even before independence (mainly due to silk). From the 1880s, Lombardy’s industrial structure strengthened, but innovations were grafted onto an economic framework with deep historical roots. The companies of Lombardy achieved primacy in the nation’s mechanical industry, took the first steps in the chemical industry, conquered the internal market for textile products, transformed the steel industry, and created a modern hydroelectric industry. This progress was made in conditions created by a singular equilibrium of the economic system, since agriculture also progressed in all its forms. Nonetheless, above all, the chapter emphasises that most of Lombardy’s industries derive from the progressive enlargement of pre-existing industries in the same districts. Furthermore, the persistence of medium and small businesses alongside the large factories in the same branch of industry has given flexibility and resistance down to the present day.