Political Theory 101 Friedrich List and the National System
Sep 8, 2025
Dive into Friedrich List's fascinating journey as he advocates for a German customs union and protective tariffs. Explore the impact of the Napoleonic Wars on German sovereignty and the critique of British imperialism through List's economic theories. Discover the complexities of international relations, the role of technology transfer in trade, and how military competition has historically influenced economic growth. The discussion also addresses contemporary issues such as European defense dynamics in the face of global competition.
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From Tanner's Son To Trade Organizer
- Friedrich List rose from a tanner's son to professor and organizer of the Association of German Merchants and Manufacturers.
- He championed a German customs union and resigned when pressured, later becoming an editor and MP.
Exile, Enterprise, And Rail Success
- List fled Württemberg, emigrated to the U.S., made money in coal and railroads, then returned to influence German rail development.
- His advocacy helped establish the Leipzig–Dresden railway and a German customs union in the 1830s.
Stage-Based Trade For National Strength
- List prescribes a three-stage trade strategy: free trade to learn, protection to industrialize, then liberalization when competitive.
- He links national production to defense and sees industrialization as essential to state security.
