Spanish Education Reform 1840-1860: Pidal Plan & Moyano Law

Spanish Education Reform (1840-1860)

The 1845 Constitution and Educational Priorities

The 1845 Constitution, a moderate document reflecting the joint sovereignty of the Nation, King, and Parliament, addressed education. However, providing basic knowledge to the population wasn't a priority for Spanish authorities. Census voting, restricted by gender and social class, further limited popular participation. The primary aim of education was to prepare citizens for governance, not for universal enlightenment.

Two Landmark Laws: The Pidal Plan (1845) and Moyano Law (1857)

Two crucial laws shaped education during this period: the 1845 General Plan of Studies (the "Pidal Plan") and the 1857 Law of Public Instruction (the "Moyano Law").

The Pidal Plan (1845)

Authored by Pedro José Pidal (1799-1865), the Pidal Plan viewed education as an instrument of power, not a social tool. Also known as the "Plan General de Estudios," it emphasized secularization, generality, teacher freedom from administration, centralization, and relative gratuity. Antonio Gil y Zárate played a significant role in its development.

The plan asserted state control over education, superseding the Church's authority. It structured primary, secondary, and superior education, with a particular focus on secondary education. Gil de Zárate's quote highlights the rationale for secularization: "Because the question of teaching is a matter of power…To deliver the teaching to the clergy, is to want men to be trained for the clergy and not for the State." University education saw the introduction of public exams for teacher regulation and the establishment of rectors and deans.

The Concordat of 1851 and Curriculum Harmonization

The 1851 Concordat between the Vatican and Spain saw the Church formally acknowledge its role in education. A new curriculum aimed to harmonize traditional and modern educational content.

The Moyano Law (1857)

The Moyano Law, officially the Law of Public Instruction or Education, built upon the Pidal Plan's foundation. This moderate law sought a balance between progressive and moderate viewpoints to achieve stability and political consensus. It remained in effect until 1970.

The Moyano Law promoted centralized public education as a common interest for all Spaniards. It introduced free and compulsory primary education for both boys and girls, while also recognizing private institutions. Higher technical studies were incorporated, reflecting the growing importance of industry and commerce. Teachers were required to pass public exams but also had to be Spanish and demonstrate appropriate religious and moral conduct, aligning with Spain's Catholic identity.

The state assumed responsibility for school funding, and the government played a key role in curriculum development through "Study Plans." Libraries and museums were integrated into the public system. The Moyano Law became a cornerstone of the Spanish educational system, leaving a lasting legacy.