Ribnica’s economic situation from the second half of the nineteenth century to the Second World War

Abstract

The article sheds light on the time marked by accelerated industrialisation, in which craftsmen made a definitive break from the classical system of guilds and a step towards freedom of trade. The changes entailed by these novelties also inevitably affected Ribnica as an important craft centre. The economic progress in the early twentieth century introduced to Ribnica steam engines that heralded the coming of a new »industrial era«. This time also witnessed the establishment of the first enterprises, which experienced their biggest boom between the two world war wars. Swift progress changed the needs of the inhabitants and resulted in the gradual dying out of certain industries (fur, wash leather and leather trade) while at the same time also leading to the emergence of new ones (mechanics, electricity, photographic studio) that were better suited to the demands of modern times.