Szapáry Gyula, az önálló földművelésügyi tárca megszervezője

Estók, János (2023) Szapáry Gyula, az önálló földművelésügyi tárca megszervezője. AGRÁRTÖRTÉNETI SZEMLE, 64 (1-4). pp. 13-46. ISSN 0002-1105

Preview

Text Estok_J.pdf - Published Version Download (521kB) | Preview

Abstract

Count Gyula Szapáry (1832–1905) as a member of Parliament, high ranking state official and head of influential non-governmental organizations, was present at every major decision or its preparation that was relevant for the capitalistic transfromation of the economy, the freedom and security of the markets or the development of modern constitutionality and the rule of law. He actively participated in the amendments of electoral laws, the reorganization of local goverment as well as several financial and economic decisions. The economic and cultural achievements of Hungary in the late 19th century, highly remarkable by contemporary European standards, were based on the initiatives in these decades. The expertise of Gyula Szapáry and his connections to the professional, political and social elites would have made it possible for him to represent the interests of agrarian society and the ministry within the government for a longer time. Even though it was during his successors’ tenure (Count András Bethlen, Ignác Darányi) when the internal structure of the Ministry was finalized and its assignments and funds were increased, it is undeniable that it was Szapáry who was responsible for forming the ministry and launching its activities. The results of the reorganization and the advantages of concentrating the agrarian sector had already been apparent a few years after his resignation, as shown for example by the laws on rangers that regulated wide aspects of agricultural development such as plot usage, plant production, animal husbandry or the state-sponsored vineyard reconstructions. Even though the law regulating water use was not enacted during his administration he had an undeniable role in laying the foundations of a water conservation system that was effective, stood the test of European comparisons and remained of a high standard in the interwar period as well. Some initiatives that Szapáry included in his ministerial programme but could not realize due to the lack of time for their elaboration, parliamentary discussion or execution, later became laws such as those relating to cattle raising, veterinary care, wine adulteration or plantations.

Actions (login required)

Edit Item