Life and Works of Rizal RIZ101 Reviewer

Life and Works of Jose Rizal

• Jose Rizal, full name Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda, was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna.
• Widely recognized as a national hero and martyr, his execution in 1896 at Fort Santiago marked a crucial moment in Philippine history against Spanish colonial rule.

Rizal's Literary Contributions

• Noli Me Tangere: A hopeful novel advocating for reforms through education, representing characters like Crisostomo Ibarra and Pilosopong Tasyo.
• El Filibusterismo: A darker sequel to Noli Me Tangere, it presents a more radical perspective on the Philippine revolution.

Rizal Law (R.A. 1425)

• Enacted to mandate the study of Rizal's life and writings in educational institutions.
• House Bill No. 5561, largely supported by Congressman Pedro Lopez, emphasized the need for Rizal's works in curricula.
• Senate Bill No. 438 was sponsored by Jose P. Laurel, who chaired the Senate during the bill's presentation.
• Opponent Jacobo Gonzales raised concerns about indoctrination and religious freedom regarding the law's implementation.
• Signed into law by President Ramon Magsaysay on June 12, 1956.
• Fidel V. Ramos ensured strong enforcement of R.A. 1425 through subsequent memorandums in 1994 and 1995.

Historical Context: Precolonial and Colonial Literature

• Precolonial literature primarily consisted of oral traditions and communicated through verbal and non-verbal means.
• The Galleon Trade ended in 1815, paving the way for new commercial opportunities in the Philippines.
• Mercantilism dictated that a country’s wealth equated with its power, influencing colonial policies.

Social Stratification During Spanish Period

• Peninsulares: Pure-blood Spaniards born in Spain, occupying elite positions.
• Insulares: Full-blooded Spaniards born in the Philippines, often viewed as second-class citizens compared to Peninsulares.
• Indios: Native Filipinos, categorized as the lowest social caste.
• Chinese Mestizos: Offspring of intermarriages between Chinese immigrants and local Filipinos.

Tax Policies and Labor Systems

• Polo y Servicio: Compulsory unpaid labor for public works imposed on indigenous people.
• Bandala: A policy requiring locals to provide a portion of agricultural products to the government.
• Inquilino: Tenants renting land from landlords, often subleasing to sharecroppers.

Opposition to Spanish Colonialism

• Filibusteros: Individuals opposing the Spanish government, often linked to rebellion.
• Erehes: Individuals opposing the Catholic Church’s authority.

Rizal's Family and Early Life

• Father: Francisco Mercado Rizal, emphasized education and philosophy.
• Mother: Teodora Alonso Realonda y Quintos, Rizal's first teacher, influenced his love for literature and music.
• Influential siblings included Paciano Rizal who helped him in his studies in Europe.
• Early education included tutoring from Leon Monroy and formal schooling with Justiniano Aquino Cruz in Binan.

Notable Facts About Rizal

• Affectionately known as "Pepe," which means big head.
• He was the seventh child in his family.
• Rizal owned a black dog named Usman, who frequently accompanied him on walks.

This quiz reviews the life and literary contributions of Jose Rizal, a pivotal figure in Philippine history and literature. Explore key works like 'Noli Me Tangere' and the reasons behind studying literature. Prepare for a deep dive into Philippine literary history, including the Rizal Law and its significance.