The nation-state and the origins of secondary education in Argentina: The case of the colegio nacional (national school)

Abstract

This article focuses on the origins of secondary education in Argentina. In particular, it explores the possible relations between the modelling of educational institutions intended for the formation of political elites and the fabrication of the nation-state. In Argentina, the creation of free, compulsory elementary education was preceded by the development of secondary education through the setting up of the colegio nacional. These schools were formed during the political unification of the national territory after domestic post-independence wars. Note the name given to these institutions: national schools. How did the nation and the state appear in the organization of national schools? The article explores this question analyzing school curricula and rectors’ reports during the configuration of the colegio nacional between 1863 and 1890.