Rafael de Labra and the educational policy of the Bourbon Restoration

Abstract

This article contrasts two viewpoints about education during the Spanish Bourbon Restoration: on the one hand, the official one of the Government, and on the other hand, that of the Institución Libre de Enseñanza (Free Educational Institution), especially regarding the pedagogical ideas of one of its members, Rafael de Labra (1840–1918). After a brief overview through the educational landscape in Spain during 19th century, it is mentioned the Public Instruction Act of 1857. Next the main features of the educational system of the Restoration are summarised and it is also taken into account the alternative offered by the Institución. As to Labra’s insight on education, three main ideas are underlined: that education must be a main political issue; that academic freedom must be warranted; and that primary education must be the keystone of any educational system, due to its importance in forming the ethical and moral character of the person.