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Specializations in Switzerland in the Nineteenth Century: Evolution of Trade Patterns and Growth Model

ISBN: 978-1-83909-180-3, eISBN: 978-1-83909-179-7

Publication date: 30 September 2020

Abstract

Using an original product level database, this article analyzes the nature and dynamics of Swiss specializations during the “first globalization” (1850–1913). I study the comparative advantages, as well as the evolution of the trade structure, in order to understand economic performance differences between Switzerland and France. Despite differences in terms of market size, some common trends are identified. I also argue that Switzerland's skilled labor force, along with an intelligent choice of economic policy, allowed this country to adapt its specialization structure to global demand and enjoy rapid economic growth.

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Acknowledgements

Acknowledgments

The author would like to thank Claude Lacour, Alexandre Berthe, Guillaume Daudin, Claude Diebolt, Esther Regnier, Karine Onfroy, and Susan Wolcott for their helpful comments.

Citation

Charles, L. (2020), "Specializations in Switzerland in the Nineteenth Century: Evolution of Trade Patterns and Growth Model", Hanes, C. and Wolcott, S. (Ed.) Research in Economic History (Research in Economic History, Vol. 36), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 1-43. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0363-326820200000036001

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited