Private savings and public financing: a trajectory of Caixa Econômica Particular de Ouro Preto (1838-1901)

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a research about Caixa Econômica Particular de Ouro Preto since its foundation, in 1838, until its bankruptcy, in 1901. First, we will follow the origins and development of this institution through its statutes and the banking legislation of the nineteenth century. In the following, using primary data, we will try to show two of its most striking features: its relationship with the State and the diversity in the application of its funds, especially between 1880 and 1892. Competition with the “Caixa Econômica pública” will also be considered. Finally, we will deal with the banking crisis of the decade of 1890 and more specifically the decline of Caixa Econômica Particular in 1901.

Keywords:
Savings bank; Ouro Preto; Banks; Minas Gerais; XIXth century