Once more, Francisco turned his full attention to the problem of steel.
He understood now that the greatest limitation upon his machine was not the concept itself, but the materials. Steel, above all, stood as the principal obstacle. Yet even if improvements could be made in its production, another question remained—who would demand such quantities?
In most nations, the growth of steel followed necessity. It expanded only as far as society required. Even in New Granada, the limits were clear. With a population scarcely exceeding one million, the total demand would remain modest. Even if every man, woman, and child possessed their own tools, the need would not surpass a few thousand tons.
To produce a thousand tons each month would flood the country with steel… and leave it with no purpose.
He frowned slightly.
"It seems I must press for immigration," he murmured to himself. "If the population is insufficient, then it must be increased."
