Montepio Literário and the Revolution of 1820. Mutualist principles for teachers and men of letters (1813-1821)

Abstract

The professionalization of royal teachers and the constant demands addressed to the Crown by elements of this social group took  on an organized expression, after 1813, with the foundation of Montepio Literário. This mutualist association, modern in its  purposes and performance, brought together teachers and men of letters. The term that approved the Montepio Literário commitment was signed by just over 130 individuals and presented to the Regência and Desembargo do Paço, for consultation and  approval. This article analyzes the foundation of this mutualist social security association, the history of claims and petitions of  Montepio Literário, the growth of members and beneficiaries, the criticisms that this association faced and the Manifesto that one of its founding members addressed to the General and Extraordinary Courts of the Portuguese Nation, after the 1820 Revolution.