Agricultural Bank Operations (1899–1903)
The following table shows the yearly financial operations of the Agricultural Bank in francs, as well as the difference compared to the previous year Sofia Sightseeing.
Year Operations in Francs Difference
1899 493,759,187.21 –21,989,642.02
1900 507,307,502.60 +13,548,315.39
1901 535,575,182.03 +28,267,679.43
1902 827,690,477.23 +292,115,295.20
1903 972,538,557.22 +144,848,079.99
From the figures above, it is clear that the Agricultural Bank experienced steady growth from 1899 to 1903. Although the main purpose of the bank was to help farmers and people working in agriculture, it also provided services to merchants and manufacturers. This can be seen from the division of securities between agricultural and non-agricultural clients.
Distribution of Securities Between Agriculturists and Non-Agriculturists
Year Agriculturists (Fr) Non-Agriculturists (Fr)
1899 54,823,955.70 5,943,596.60
1900 56,628,822.80 6,140,191.00
1901 57,321,668.61 6,385,343.05
1902 54,408,969.26 6,335,605.52
1903 50,403,786.13 6,273,861.45
The table shows that the largest part of the bank’s securities was always held by agriculturists. However, the amount decreased slightly after 1901. The share of non-agricultural clients, though smaller, remained steady throughout the five years. This indicates that the bank gradually extended its services beyond farming to include trade and small industries.
Handicrafts and Early Industry in Bulgaria
Until the time of Bulgaria’s national liberation, agriculture and small handicrafts were the only sources of income for most people. The country suffered from poverty, a lack of good roads, and weak government support. Because of these difficulties, any attempts to start new industries often ended in failure.
Handicrafts such as weaving, pottery, and metalwork provided basic goods for local needs. Most craftsmen worked in small workshops, using simple tools and family labor. Despite their hard work, production remained low, and profits were small.
After liberation, efforts were made to modernize production and improve the economy. The establishment of institutions like the Agricultural Bank played an important role in this process. By offering credit to farmers and small producers, the bank helped them buy better tools, seeds, and materials. Over time, this financial support contributed to the gradual development of Bulgaria’s agricultural and industrial sectors.