A administração da Companhia Geral de Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro : (1756-1852)

Abstract

The administration of Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro, during its golden period, between 1756 and 1852, was practised by an administrative committee (1756--1834), one Administration (1834-1843) and one Direction (1843-1852). In the absence of any investigation, as simpler as it might be, concerning this subject, several questions are raised. How did its administration work? Which was the organ or organs responsible for the same? Which was its constitution and abilities? How was its appointment/election carried out? Who were the men that have ruled the Company during the mentioned period? How long have they performed those functions? Which was their social origin? Considering that their composition, attributions and election may have been considerably different, according to the evolution and functions of the Company itself, we have carried out its study in order to answer the raised questions.