Las familias de negocios de la ciudad de Burgos a finales del antiguo régimen: patrimonios y dinámicas (1700-1850)

Abstract

Research of the business, merchant and financial families of the Castilian city of Burgos at the end of the Ancien Regime (1700-1850), analyzing their assets, debts and their economic and family trajectories. Thus, using a variety of documentation, where especially notarial protocols stand out, it has been possible to appreciate the importance of business, particularly in the second half of the 18^th century, even revitalizing the flourishing wool trade. However, this dynamic situation broke in the first half of the 19^th century, despite the excellent demographic and economic circumstances. A devastating picture appeared, with a high dominance of more traditional and modest businesses in accordance with their economic size. In order to explain this decline, decisions concerning family inheritance must be taken into account.