Throughout the 19th century in southern Brazil, as in the whole country, girls received a poorer mathematical education than boys. Historical records of this education are scarce. The first systematic opportunity for girls to progress beyond basic arithmetic was by pursuing training as elementary school teachers. In the 20th century, several movements converged to reduce inequalities: coeducation became standard in primary schools, secondary education was standardized, and both coeducational and girls’ secondary schools expanded rapidly.