More than a Principle. The History of Savings Banks in the Course of Stein's Städteordnung, 1808-1838.

An article on the history of the reform and spread of savings banks in 19th-century Prussia is presented. The existence of savings banks, the author concludes, is entirely based on the interest and autonomous action of the general public. Evolution of these free institutes until the early 20th century are traced by the author, as is the role of Westphalian Senior President Ludwig Freiherr Vincke. The role of Prussian statesman Karl vom und zum Stein's "Städteordnung" ("City Reform") law of 1808, the Enlightenment's views on social justice for the poor, and the alteration of the way that banks were overseen by the government are also discussed.