ABSTRACT
The history of the development of industry and commerce in Germany teaches us that the economic affairs of states which are not strong enough to erect and maintain a protective tariff fall under the control of the laws of other nations. Free trade is no more than an empty expression unless it is established and guaranteed by at least two countries. For centuries the German market has been open to the commerce of all nations. This passive freedom - this freedom to be injured by every disturber of the peace - has simply resulted in the ruin of the well-being of society.
