Established on February 13 1896 the Facultad de Filosofía y Letras UBA stands proudly before you. Its creation marked a pivotal moment in Argentine history. A fourth faculty it joined the ranks of Medicine Law and Exact Sciences. But its purpose differed. Unlike its utilitarian counterparts Filo fostered disinterested studies. It championed scientific inquiry and the humanities.
Initially the Facultad de Filosofía y Letras UBA faced challenges. Few students attended its classes. Closure loomed more than once. However Filo persevered. By 1912 it established sections in Philosophy History and Literature. It became a key player in secondary education teacher training. Many of its students were teachers. A student center formed in 1905.
Filo’s story is remarkable for its progressive inclusion of women. In a university largely male at the turn of the 20th century Filo boasted a near 50/50 gender balance. This was a testament to its commitment to equality. This commitment continued into the 21st century. The UBA’s bicentennial celebration saw a strong female presence. Women made up 60.7% of the student body 52% of faculty and 34% of leadership.
The Facultad de Filosofía y Letras UBA has endured hardship. During Argentina’s last military dictatorship students faculty and staff faced systematic repression. Hundreds were victims of state terrorism. Filo’s resilience shines through a dedicated group began documenting these events. They sought to reconstruct lost histories and honor those lost. They recovered documents and gathered oral testimonies from friends and family. In 2011 a mural commemorated the disappeared. Their stories are woven into Filo’s fabric.
Today the Facultad de Filosofía y Letras UBA thrives. It offers numerous undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Its research institutes explore a wide range of subjects. History literature anthropology philosophy and more are represented. Filo’s library boasts one of Latin America’s finest collections in humanities and social sciences. The faculty also operates museums. One showcases Argentine ethnography. Another the Tilcara center in Jujuy focuses on archaeology and anthropology.
Its legacy extends beyond academia. The Facultad de Filosofía y Letras UBA shaped generations of thinkers and artists. Notable alumni include Julio Cortázar Ernesto Laclau and many others. Their contributions reflect Filo’s commitment to knowledge and culture. The university building itself now features in the 2023 film Puan a testament to its enduring presence.
So as you stand here before the Facultad de Filosofía y Letras UBA remember its past. Remember its struggles. Remember its triumphs. This institution continues to enrich Argentine society. It stands as a beacon of knowledge and intellectual pursuit.