Simón Bolívar: Influential Teachers, Philosophy, and Early Life

Why Simón Rodríguez Was Considered Bolívar's Most Influential Teacher

Simón Rodríguez profoundly impacted Simón Bolívar by challenging his preconceived notions and exposing him to the realities of colonial life. He instilled in Bolívar an awareness of the injustices faced by slaves, blacks, and browns, prompting Bolívar to seek solutions and ultimately fight for the freedom of the Venezuelan and American peoples. Rodríguez's unconventional approach ignited Bolívar's passion for change.

The Philosophy of Civil Rights Inculcated by Simón Bolívar Rodríguez

Rodríguez believed that individuals must be prepared for citizenship, understanding the rights and responsibilities it entails. His philosophy emphasized:

• Education as a means to form citizens capable of addressing social challenges.
• The importance of physical and mental development to prepare students for applied sciences.
• A comprehensive education encompassing the diverse aspects of the human experience.

Bolívar's First Trip to Europe

Bolívar's first trip commenced on January 19, 1797. He sailed to San Ildefonso, bound for Madrid. His journey included a stop in Veracruz, Mexico City, where he socialized with the aristocracy before returning to Havana and then Spain. Arriving in Santoña, Santander, he proceeded to Madrid and stayed with his uncle, Stephen Parker. During his time in Spain, he studied:

• Fencing
• Riding
• English
• French
• Castilian Language

The Significance of Bolívar's Trip to Madrid

This trip was significant because Bolívar was mentored by the Marquis de Ustáriz, a man of great culture with close ties to the encyclopedic movement and the Enlightenment in Madrid.

Bolívar's Family Origins in Venezuela

Paternal Lineage

Thirty years after the founding of Caracas in 1585, Simón Bolívar the Elder (great-grandfather) arrived with his son, Simón Bolívar the Younger (grandfather). His father, Juan Vicente Bolívar y Ponce, was born in Venezuela.

Simón Bolívar the Elder distinguished himself as a Royal Accountant, a position granted by King Philip II, who reiterated his appointment as keeper of the Treasury. He also served as Attorney General for Caracas, Coro, Trujillo, Barquisimeto, Carora, Tocuyo, and Maracaibo, reporting to the Spanish Court between 1590 and 1593 to inform King Philip about the province's status and request improvements, tax exemptions, and privileges.

Maternal Lineage

The Palacios family originated from Miranda de Ebro, Burgos, Spain. José Palacios de Sojo y Ortiz de Zárate, a native of Miranda de Ebro, arrived in Venezuela in 1647 and died in Caracas in 1703. His descendants married into other aristocratic families, holding positions such as mayor and attorney. Two generations later, María de la Concepción Palacios y Blanco, Simón Bolívar's mother, was born and married Bolívar's father.

Bolívar's Education

Bolívar's education was multifaceted and influential.

Institutions Attended by Bolívar

• Squads led by the Brother of Jesus of Nazareth
• District School of William Pelgron

Bolívar's Teachers

• Pedro José Negrete
• Doctor Fernando Vides
• Andrés Bello
• Cedi José Ávila
• Lic. Miguel Sanz

Who Was Simón Rodríguez?

Simón Rodríguez, also known as Samuel Robinson, was the amanuensis (copyist) of Feliciano Palacios, the Liberator's father. He was the teacher who exerted the most influence on Bolívar, having been educated in Europe under the influence of Rousseau's thought and work.

The Philosophy of Simón Rodríguez

Rodríguez advocated for a comprehensive education encompassing mind, body, and spirit.