"Representatives of the intellectual element." Two spaces of science: the Queretaro Scientific Contest and the Queretaro Polytechnic Society, 1900-1902

Abstract

The city of Queretaro at the beginning of the 20th century was the scene of various scientific activities promoted by civil society and with the support of the government. Among these are the celebration of the Queretano Scientific Contest (1900-1901) and the scientific discussions that took place within the Queretano Polytechnic Society (1901-1902), spaces that socialized the results of the scientific research carried out in the entity. The objective of the article is to recognize the importance of the Contest and Society in the development of scientific practice in Queretaro within the framework of the activities of the intellectual elite to combat diseases, take advantage of natural resources, recognize the territory, and improve communications and transportation. Both scientific spaces at the beginning of the 20th century joined the country's academic network to solve social problems through science. The historical source is made up of thirteen writings published in the Official Newspaper of the State of Querétaro. La Sombra de Arteaga, as well as ten writings from the press of Mexico City. The press exposed the interest of civil society and the government in highlighting Queretaro's scientific activities before regional and national public opinion. The Contest and the Society were regional scientific spaces that sought to attract new practitioners, exchange specialized information, start scientific vocations, educate elementary teachers, and promote the production of local science.