Introduction to Jose Rizal

Study Notes

Dr. Jose Rizal is revered as the national hero of the Philippines and is recognized for his exceptional range of talents and intellect.
He was not only a physician and ophthalmic surgeon but also a poet, dramatist, essayist, novelist, historian, architect, painter, sculptor, educator, linguist, musician, naturalist, ethnologist, surveyor, engineer, businessman, economist, geographer, cartographer, bibliophile, philologist, grammarian, folklorist, philosopher, translator, inventor, and magician.
Rizal's multifaceted skills earned him the title of "First Malayan Hero," and he dedicated his life to advocating for the rights and freedoms of his people, culminating in his martyrdom.

Rizal was declared the Philippine National Hero by the Revolutionary Government under Emilio Aguinaldo on December 30, 1898, coinciding with the first observance of his death anniversary.
This day is recognized as a day of national mourning to honor his legacy.
Selection of Rizal as a national hero was endorsed by both Americans and Filipinos, highlighting the profound impact of his death on the Filipino populace.
Observations from Antonio Guevarra confirmed a town’s mourning with flags at half-mast to commemorate Rizal’s tragic execution in Bagumbayan.

American author Mrs. Dauncey Campbell noted that Rizal Day was celebrated in Iloilo, marked by festivities commemorating the national hero.
The Taft Commission, led by William Howard Taft, officially selected Rizal to be recognized as a national hero, with members including both American and Filipino figures.

Essential criteria for being declared a national hero include being Filipino, deceased, possessing immense love for the country, demonstrating a calm demeanor, and dying in a dramatic manner.
Jose Rizal met all these criteria, solidifying his status as the Philippines' most celebrated national hero.

Even posthumously, Rizal's contributions have led to continued public reverence, further establishing him as a lead figure among Filipinos and international figures alike.
Prominent individuals like Ferdinand Blumentritt and Dr. Reinhold Rost highlighted Rizal’s stature as a leader and praised his impact on Philippine history.

Rizal was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna.
He was baptized on June 22, 1861, by Father Rufino Collantes, with his godfather being Father Pedro Casanas.
His name "Jose" was chosen by his mother, a devotee of Saint Joseph, and the baptismal certificate was witnessed by Leoncio Lopez.
At the time of Rizal's birth, the Governor-General of the Philippines was Lieutenant-General Jose Lemery, a former senator of Spain.