The Freedom of Expression: Freedom of Printing in Constitutional Central America, 1810-1821

Authors

  • Sajid Alfredo Herrera Mena Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17811/hc.v0i22.757

Keywords:

Central America, Freedom of Printing, Constitutionalism, Public Opinion, Censorship

Abstract

This essay analyses the political-legal conditions that the inhabitants of Central America had to express their ideas in the two constitutional periods (1810-1814; 1820-1821). To this end, it will be emphasized in the important role played by the decree and Regulation on Freedom of Printing of 1810. During those years, Central Americans reflected on freedom of printing as a right and experienced absolutist censorship; they navigated their apparent danger at a time of war against the French and in the face of dissenting and insurgent voices. Also, through the written press, they audited the elected authorities on behalf of the public opinion.

Fecha de envío / Submission date: 23/04/2021

Fecha de aceptación / Acceptance date: 4/05/2021

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Published

2021-09-04

Issue

No. 22 (2021): Historia Constitucional N. 22 (2021)

Section

Dossier: 1820-1821: A key biennium in the Hispanic world

License

Copyright (c) 2021 Sajid Alfredo Herrera Mena

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