Companies, investments and merchants in Cali (Colombia) between 1915 and 1929

Abstract

This article exposes some features of the formalbusiness network in Cali (Colombia) between 1915 and 1929. It is a systematization of the public deeds of the First Notary of the Circuit of Cali, based on the commercial companies registered there. Through this exercise and the use of the “merchant” category, some characteristics of the local business configuration were obtained at the beginning of a qualified period of economic modernization and industrial take-off. The research shows the importance of small and medium enterprises in local dynamics, the significant weight of the services sector and the noticeable fluctuation of investments during the years of study.