Industrial Evolution in Spain and Catalonia (1900-1930)
Industrial Evolution in Spain and Catalonia
In Spain, the primary industries were food and textiles, although these sectors lost relative weight over time due to the emergence of the chemical and metallurgical industries. In 1902, Altos Hornos de Vizcaya was established. The electricity sector also became prominent due to the increasing demand for energy within the electrical industry.
Emerging Sectors and Technological Advancements
Other growth sectors included metallurgy, specifically automobile manufacturing, where the company Hispano-Suiza stood out, alongside the appliance industry. The automotive sector evolved as oil refining techniques improved. In this regard, in 1927, during the Primo de Rivera dictatorship, the company CAMPSA was founded in Spain. The construction sector also began to grow significantly during this period.
The Catalan Industrial Powerhouse
Catalonia represented nearly half of the Spanish industry. While the textile sector remained the largest, Catalan industry diversified into light industry and consumer goods. The electricity sector saw massive growth; by 1910, Barcelona already had electric street lighting. This progress attracted the first Canadian multinationals. Local companies were also established, such as Catalana de Gas y Electricidad in 1911. The Spanish market became the primary consumer of Catalan products, leading to a consolidated national market.
Regional Industrial Distribution
A major difference between Catalan and Basque industrialization was that the Basque Country successfully consolidated a local banking branch, whereas Catalonia did not. Industrial distribution remained concentrated in the Basque Country and Catalonia, though Madrid emerged as the third industrial zone. Other regional industries included:
- Galicia: Fishing and canning industry
- Alicante: Footwear manufacturing
- Valencia: Toy industry
Infrastructure and Communications
Communications and transport saw significant improvements. Railway construction was finalized, and the Barcelona rail network was electrified. In major cities, tram lines expanded, and subway construction began in both Barcelona and Madrid. The road network was also enhanced. Regarding communications, the first telephone company was created in Barcelona, followed by the Compañía Telefónica Nacional de España in 1924.
Economic Policy and Protectionism
State interventionism in the economy returned with full force during this period. Protectionism was strictly enforced, particularly during the Primo de Rivera dictatorship, to shield domestic industries from foreign competition.