Abstract
Worship and public instruction were common concerns for the presidents of the province of Mato Grosso, in the first half of the 19th century. Concerns that turned into an important context in the history of Brazil, regarding the constitution of the nation and the feeling of belonging, for that, in that context, the formation of docile and civilized individuals was vital. This article analyzes the speeches made by the presidents of the province of Mato Grosso, addressed to the provincial Legislative Assembly, in the first half of the 19th century, about worship and public instruction, to demonstrate that these two sectors were used as moralizing strategies and civilizing aspects of the population of Mato Grosso. For such purpose, the speeches of the presidents will be presented, considering the guidelines that guided the organization and constitution of the provincial power in the eighties.
Keywords:
Mato Grosso; provincial president; public worship; public education