The Activities of the National Oil Society in the Development of the Galician Oil Industry at the turn of the 20th Century

Abstract

In the mid-nineteenth century in view of the general backwardness of economic and social structures in Galicia, Austria's largest province, the petroleum industry played an extremely important role in stimulating economic recovery and favored positive civilization changes. As a new branch of the economy, the oil industry caused many problems, but at the same time created a fantastic opportunity for Galicia's economic development. No other sector of the Galician economy has given such opportunities to exit the provincial environment and create such extensive contacts between entrepreneurs and professionals in Galicia, as well as on the international stage. Thanks to this, scientific and technical thoughts were exchanged through professional oil press, national and international conventions and congresses, and organized exhibitions. Institutions gathering oil entrepreneurs and representatives of Galician oilers were also quickly established. Institutions gathering oil entrepreneurs and representatives of Galician oilers were also quickly established. In a short time, the National Oil Society (KTN) gained the greatest importance among these organizations. Founded in 1879, the National Oil Society played a significant role in paving the way for the development of the Galician oil industry. The vast majority of Galician entrepreneurs and constructors associated with the oil industry belonged to the Society. The society initiated and coordinated many activities aimed at promoting oil mining both in Galicia and throughout the Habsburg Monarchy. Due to various connections, KTN activists, providing care and defending the interests of the Galician oil industry, significantly influenced the content of decisions issued by both the Galician authorities and the Viennese government.