Come and Go
A Pioneer Region of the Industrial Revolution in Transition
The industrial age began in Saxony as early as 1800. Key factors were its geographical location, well-developed agriculture, and a strong tradition of craftsmanship.
The transition to factory work began in the textile industry. Closely linked to this was the development of mechanical engineering. Saxon citizens and immigrants founded highly specialized companies. By the early 20th century, Saxony was the most industrialized region in Germany.
The two World Wars, National Socialism, and the widespread nationalization of industry during Germany’s division had dramatic structural consequences. As a result, the Saxon economy lost much of its innovative capacity. The peaceful revolution of 1989/90 was followed by a rapid transition to a market economy. Saxony underwent the greatest structural transformation in its history, achieving it through a return to traditional strengths and the establishment of new industries.
