Francisco Ferrer (1859 - 1909)

Mon Jan 10, 1859

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Francisco Ferrer, born on this day in 1859, was an anarchist educator who founded a network of secular libertarian schools in and around Barcelona, Spain. Following a sham trial in 1909, Ferrer was executed by the state.

In 1901, Ferrer founded the Barcelona Modern School, “Escuela Moderna”, which sought to provide a secular, libertarian curriculum as an alternative to the religious dogma and compulsory lessons common within Spanish schools. His school eschewed punishments and rewards, and encouraged practical experience over academic study.

In mid-1909, Ferrer was arrested and accused of orchestrating a week of insurrection in Barcelona known as the “Tragic Week”. He was convicted in a show trial and executed by firing squad on October 13th, 1909.

Ferrer’s death triggered international outcry, and his life was prominently memorialized in writing, monuments, and demonstrations across three continents. His last words before being shot were “Aim well, my friends. You are not responsible. I am innocent. Long live the Modern School!”

“Let no more gods or exploiters be served Let us learn rather to love one another.”

- Francisco Ferrer