The history of the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR) is marked by great achievements and is closely linked to the State of Paraná development history. It was the courage and the competence of its founders, motivated by the Paraná society that made ​​UFPR the oldest university in Brazil. It was only in 1912, when it evaluated the Paraná needed more qualified professionals, He initiated a pro-University of Paraná movement. At that time, the political leadership also mobilized in support of the university's creation. On 19 December 1912, Victor Ferreira do Amaral e Silva led the actual creation of the University of Paraná. It was a progress time of the state economy, due to abundant production and the flourishing trade of yerba mate. "The 19th of December represented the political emancipation of the state and must also represent their intellectual emancipation," said Victor Ferreira do Amaral.