The Social and Economic Position of Slovenes in Trieste and Gorizia before the First World War and the Work of H. Tuma

Abstract

The life and work of Henrik Turna in the region of Trieste and Gorizia falls into the .period when the Slovene nation was becoming a subject in the Austrian policy. In order to be able to get actively involved in the events of the time it had to establish structures- which other nations already possessed and from which they were drawing strength. The activity of Henrik Tuma in the founding and management of co-operatives, savings-banks and loan societies, educational and other institutions did not stem from his hostility towards Italians but from the belief that, at that particular historical moment, it was no longer possible for the Slovene nation to be restricted to subjection only. Tuma was deeply aware of the significance Trieste held for the Slovene hinterland, as well as of the significance of the latter for it. He was for coexistence of both nations* for the contest of cultures, but not for struggle.