Reichstag Connections in Pre- and Interwar Germany

In: Jahrbuch für Wirtschaftsgeschichte: Economic history yearbook, Band 59, Heft 1, S. 157-185

Abstract

Abstract
This article documents widespread connections between stock companies and active or retired politicians in Germany during two distinct political regimes: constitutional monarchy and democracy. These differed largely regarding possible channels of influence, along with the power of the parliament. Despite the theoretical differences, the overall share of connected firms is approximately the same, implying that linking up with the Reichstag was already attractive in Imperial times. Moreover, the prevalence of political connections varied largely between sectors and political parties.