Francisco Ferrer

Francisco Ferrer was a Spanish educator and reformer born in 1859, known for founding the Modern School movement. He believed in secular, progressive education that encouraged critical thinking, creativity, and social awareness, challenging traditional religious and authoritative schooling. Ferrer's approach aimed to promote individual freedoms and democratic values among students. His ideas gained international influence, inspiring alternative educational models. However, in 1909, Ferrer was controversially accused of involvement in an uprising and was executed by firing squad, which sparked protests worldwide. Today, he is recognized as a pioneer in progressive education and secularism.