Includes bibliographical references.

This book is the culmination of a decade and a half of study, research, writing, revision, and aspiration. It is largely based on my doctoral dissertation of the same title which was accepted by the Graduate School of the University of the Philippines a decade ago, nearly one decade after the death of its subject. Many waters have passed under the bridge since, but the ideas and principles that proceed from Don Claro's thought remain crystal clear and relevant. Some say that he was an anachronism: that he was born ahead of his time, for the causes he championed so passionately are only beginning to take hold and with luck bear fruit; or that he was born too late, for the attitudes he cherished so dearly belong to a by gone age. This student believes that anachronism or not, Don Claro is one of the greatest Filipinos who ever lived, one whose love for his country and concern for his people are as unsullied today as they had been in his lifetime. -- Foreword