THE LIMITS OF THE ESTADO DOCENTE: EDUCATION AND POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN PERU, 1876-1940

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe power of the elites became the dominant explanation of the extension of the franchise and expansion of the provision of public services. Peru from 1876 to 1940 presents a contrasting case. Although restricting political participation through literacy requirements, Peru saw an increase in literacy and schooling. Nevertheless, the relative power of the national and local elites articulated the national policies resulting in unequal provision of education. Constrained political access of the economic minority, the indigenous population, translated into a widening gap in terms of educational attainment.