Role of old and new industrial elites in the development of northeast Brazil: the Recife case, 1970

An exploratory study of leaders of industrial enterprises, in Recife, a Northeast Brazilian city which has witnessed increasing poverty, unemployment, and political instability. Its industry has been one of the main targets of a regional development program (SUDENE) which subsidized and encouraged new enterprises. A representative sample of heads of enterprises (employing 50 or more persons) founded prior to SUDENE (the old elite) and heads of enterprises founded after 1960 (the new elite) are the source of the data. In-depth interview were conducted in order to determine the role of this industrial elite in the economic growth of Recife. Particular attention is devoted to the relations of this elite and their enterprises to key institutions in the developmental process such as labour, banks, education and government agencies. A prime goal of this study is to measure the effects of this unique regional development program on the industrial structure and to determine whether entrepreneurial activity is fostered. The major research instrument is a detailed questionnaire covering biographical background, values and attitudes, the extent of foreign investment and control, industrial relations, financial institutions, government agencies, recruitment, succession and expansion. 1 data file (96 logical records) & accompanying documentation.