Agrarian transformations and rural industry. Open questions

Abstract

The pervasive presence in rural areas of textile activities oriented to extraregional markets was a distinctive feature of the Catalan economy in the 18th century. The article focuses on the woollen industry, that in several areas became a crucial component of the rural economy. The reasons behind the establishment of scattered cottage industries only in given areas are discussed. The conclusion advocates for a micro-analytical approach as the only way leading to a better understanding of the unequal diffusion of rural industries across the region.