Textbooks of the history of Brazil: Between subjects, practices and methods (Río de Janeiro, 1870-1920)

Abstract

This study attempts to understand what changed and what stayed the same in the production of Brazilian History textbooks during the growth of literate culture and literate audiences in the city of Rio de Janeiro, from 1870 to 1920, through Brazilian History textbooks. It attempts to follow the actions of those involved in this process – authors, booksellers, editors and teachers – in search of their motivations and of the various meanings involved in the experiences of the vulgarization of historical knowledge through teaching manuals. The expansion of teaching must be understood as part of the discussions regarding the ideas of citizenship and civic duty in Brazil, particularly in the relation between education and citizen formation, defended by many, where subjects fought through various strategies.