Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia Executed (1909)

Wed Oct 13, 1909

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Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia (1859 - 1909) also known as Francisco Ferrer, was a radical anarchist educator who was executed by the Spanish government on this day in 1909. His death caused a storm of international protest across three continents.

Ferrer was well-known for founding a network of secular and libertarian schools in and around Barcelona. 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 known as Barcelona’s “Tragic Week”. He was convicted in a show trial and executed by firing squad on October 13th, 1909. His death triggered international outcry, and his life was prominently memorialized in writing, monuments, and demonstrations across three continents.

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

- Francisco Ferrer