Anísio Teixeira’s Experiences at Teachers College and the Quest to Foster Democracy Through Education in Brazil

Abstract

Background/Context: Considered one of the most influential educators in Brazil’s history, Anísio Teixeira is one of the renowned Latin American students who came to Teachers College (TC). Teixeira was a prominent reformer and educator known for advocating free, public, and secular education accessible to all children. His work as an educator and policy maker is closely related to the idea that schools are “machines that generate democracy.” Purpose/Objective: The article discusses how Teixeira’s education at Teachers College and his experiences within the U.S. schooling system shaped his conceptions of education and influenced how he aimed to reform the Brazilian public school. Research Design: The study is a historical analysis based on archival research and the works published by Teixeira on education and democracy. Conclusions: Brazil and the United States’ historical moment influenced how Anísio Teixeira lived his personal and academic experiences at Teachers College. While discussions on society and education in his home country revolved around establishing a new model, Teachers College welcomed international students who could promote values based on the example offered by the United States. The combination of those perspectives impacted how Teixeira perceived the centrality of democratic values on schooling practices and considered them central for the reforms he would implement upon returning to Brazil.