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Join Strictly Facts as we share the captivating journey of education in the French Caribbean, focusing on Martinique's rich history throughout the 20th century. With the insightful PhD candidate Nora Eguienta by my side, we unravel the largely untold stories of women educators who profoundly shaped the educational and political landscape from 1920 to 1960. These women dominated teaching positions yet were conspicuously absent from leadership roles—a paradox that persisted until well into the late 1960s. Nora helps is to explore this intriguing dynamic, diving into historical narratives and the powerful activism led by figures like Paulette Nardal, challenging the biases that limited women's roles in education.

Our conversation also takes a scholarly turn as we discuss Patrick Chamoiseau's "Chemin d'école," providing a cultural snapshot of the 1950s schooling experience amid Martinique's transition into a French department. Through this lens, we address the educational challenges of cultural and linguistic barriers, while highlighting the unsung heroes who contributed to the island's rich history. From the impact of migration on teaching staff to the importance of curricula that reflected local histories, we weave a complex tapestry of topics that emphasize the profound influence of everyday individuals on the social history of the French West Indies. Join us in celebrating the resilience and contributions of those who paved the way for future generations.

Nora Eguienta is a PhD candidate in the Department of History at the University Paris 8—Saint-Denis. She is preparing a thesis titled “Les institutrices de l’école primaire laïque en Martinique des années 1920 aux années 1960.” Her research focuses on the history of education, especially on women teaching in elementary schools in Martinique during colonial and postcolonial times. Nora analyzes women professionalization in the context of development of public schools during the French Third Republic and studies their different types of political commitment as educated women living in a colonial society. She is also a certified teacher, teaching contemporary history at middle school, high school and college level. Follow Nora on Twitter and LinkedIn.

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