Conclusions and Perspectives

Abstract

The case-studies presented in this volume have provided a wealth of detailed information, but also a framework and point of reference for further systematic comparative analyses. The particular circumstances of each case have been presented and some of the hypotheses discussed in the beginning could be confirmed or rejected. It turned out, and this was really not surprising, that no single sweeping explanation could account for the multitude of cases analysed. In a number of instances – such as in the Netherlands or the United Kingdom - it could be shown that the survival of democratic institutions and procedures, in spite of a severe impact of the Great Depression, had always been a likely outcome. A broader social and political consensus, the relatively well-functioning democratic feedback mechanisms, responsible and capable actors and timely policies ensured a relatively smooth weathering of the crisis.