Obrtničko-radničko društvo ‹‹Banovac›› u Petrinji (1885.-1905.)
The Craftsman-Laborer’s Association “Banovac” in Petrinja (1855-1905)

Summary/Abstract: The Craftsman-Laborer’s Association “Banovac”, as the first association in the territory of Petrinja and Banovina, founded in 1885, and functioning until 1945, significantly contributed to the development of the crafts industry in this region, and in elevating the technical, cultural and humanitarian awareness of its members. Until the beginning of the 20th century, it was the only association in Banovina that significantly influenced craftsmen and laborers in this region, especially in its efforts surrounding the foundation of similar associations in Glina and Kostajnica. Not a single political party could secure significant support from the association. After a meeting of the association in Sisak in 1889, relations with “socialist circles”, whose ideas governed the agenda of the Craftsman-Laborer’s Association in Zagreb, became visibly chilled. In the meantime, the Association remained open to cooperation with associations, which were called worker’s associations, and under the influence of socialists, as well as with organizations under the influence of other political parties, particularly the Pure Party of Right. The Association was not burdened with Croatian-Serbian relations, which were present in a large portion of Croatia, especially in Banovina, right at the turn of the century. Considering that at that time, a total of 90% of tradesmen in Petrinja were of Croatian ethnicity, and only 10% of Serbian ethnicity (while in Petrinja the proportion of merchants of Serbian ethnicity was much more favorable), it is clear why “Banovac” from its foundation, until 1905, did not witness any conflicts with national omens.

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