Perhospolka

Perhospolka is a type of institution that was established in the Czech Republic, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The term "perhospolka" is derived from the Czech word "perhos," which refers to a pawnshop or a place where valuable items are sold on credit. However, perhospolka institutions were not exclusively involved in pawnbroking; they also offered financial services and mortgages to the working class.

The perhospolka movement was launched in the early 20th century with the goal of providing low-interest lending and other financial services to working-class people who were unable to access traditional banking services. The institutions were typically non-profit organizations owned by their members, who contributed to the management and governance of the perhospolka.

Perhospolka institutions often provided a range of financial services, including mortgages, savings accounts, and emergency loans. They also offered education and support programs to help their members improve their financial literacy and stability. In many cases, perhospolka institutions were also involved in community development and social activism, advocating for workers' rights and better working conditions.

The perhospolka movement was influential in the Czech Republic and spread to other parts of Europe. However, after World War II, many perhospolka institutions were nationalized or transformed into government-controlled entities. While some still exist today, their role and influence have diminished significantly since their heyday. Despite this, perhospolka remains an important chapter in the history of alternative financial systems and community-based economic development.