Historica Olomucensia

Public Involvement of Olomouc Maltsters

Olomouc malt houses used to be owned almost exclusively by Jewish businessmen. These malt houses belonged among the oldest and largest in Austria and they owners were, through their business and political connections, quite powerful citizens. They were seated in important economic and political offices (in Olomouc as well as at state level), were involved in religious life (not only) of Olomouc, and were important participants in the process of industrialization and urbanization of the city. This article deals with life and public involvement of three (four) generations of Olomouc maltsters.