Introduction: Formal and Informal Credit Across Europe: A Long-Run Perspective

In September 2007, the collapse of the Northern Rock Bank heralded a devastating financial crisis. That became evident with the failure of one of the biggest financial firms of the world, the Lehman Brothers in 2008. Before this, modern financial markets appeared robust and working efficiently: prosperity seemed unlimited and stability unquestionable. The crisis shifted soon from the financial sector to the real economy, infecting it with dramatic consequences on individuals’ lives, bringing with it recession and unemployment. This moment marked a watershed putting into discussion the current paradigms.