Caring for Human Capital: Some Issues in a Historical Perspective

This article uses the historical method to analyse three case studies of support initiatives for individuals transitioning out of marginalization that were implemented in different contexts and periods. The first analysis concerns a case of ‘proto-microcredit’ in the province of Bergamo at the end of the 19th century. The second examines a path of support through school-work integration in post-war Milan. Finally, the third discusses a development cooperation project initiated in Central America at the beginning of the 2000s. The analogies between these very different initiatives highlight common underlying elements, allowing us to uncover the constraints and opportunities that characterize them. Moreover, the comparison highlights the influence exerted by the broader context in determining the outcome of these projects of emancipation. These are issues that can also raise questions for those currently designing similar pathways to help people escape poverty.