Developing South Africa was also one of Austria's measures to deal with the agricultural crisis, as the newly created jobs were perfect for resettling bankrupt farmers and preventing a tide of unemployment.
Europeans have always held a strong interest in gold, and prospecting was the easiest path to wealth in this era. With enough luck, one could strike it rich.
Among the earliest Austrian immigrants to Africa, five out of ten started out through gold mining, and of the remaining five, two were involved in providing logistical services for gold mining operations.
In an era where every colonial power lacked immigrants, standing out among competitors was key, and propaganda was essential.
A beautiful pipe dream was indispensable; as for whether one could actually find a gold mine and get rich upon arrival, Franz could confidently say that ninety-nine percent would not.
