Castilian Companies: between the Medieval Model and Modern Business (Fifteenth and Sixteenth Centuries)

Abstract

During the Late Medieval and the Early Modern period, Castile became one of the most powerful Kingdoms. The endogenous economic growth, the expansion of trade and financial activities, and the connection with international networks fostered a propitious environment to do business. Castilians and foreigners understood how convenient the creation of companies was: trade and financial companies were the best way to do business in a context of increasing competition. This chapter aims to explore the bases of these companies, since the establishment to the liquidation, and will analyze the importance of topics like the corporate and financial structure, the work management, the labor conflicts or failures. We’ll provide an overview about companies in a period of changes and challenges like the expansion through Europe and America.