The opinion article pioneers in Portugal. The journalistics columns of Ernesto da Silva (1892-1903)

Abstract

Since the organizational beginnings of the workers' movement, the socialists have endeavored to maintain an active newspaper through which to convey their labor demands, denounce their living conditions, and spread their ideology. In these workers' newspapers - and not only - we reveal the presence of the most significant figures of this political group through an element that has been little studied, the opinion article, which in some cases represents a journalistic work of a certain solidity. These intellectuals are also pioneers of this type of opinion from the perspective of the history of journalism in Portugal, and in 19th century worker journalism. In this article we analyze Ernesto da Silva's (1868-1903) journalistic journey, as a columnist, writer or director, as well as the work he produces. The study of these sources will allow to advance in the study of the history of the press in Portugal.