Stages of diversification: France, 1836–1938
利用1836–1938年法国细分出口数据，研究发现法国比较优势从传统制造业转向新兴制造业，出口多样化在1860年后加速、1880年后放缓，人均GDP比贸易壁垒更能解释多样化进程，表明法国经济表现并非异常。
We study economic performance in France 1836–1938 through the prism of international trade. Using a new database of disaggregated exports, we document that French revealed comparative advantage moved from traditional to new manufactures and some non-manufactured goods. A strong diversification of exports begins in 1860 which decelerates from 1880. GDP per capita is a stronger determinant of diversification than trade barriers. Both variables have been highlighted in recent studies of export diversification covering the late 20th century. France followed a very common trajectory supporting the view that French economic performance was not as abnormal as the early literature maintained.