Philippine History: Gomburza and Rizal

Study Notes

Three Filipino priests, Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora, were executed by the Spanish in 1872.
This event is known as the Gomburza execution, a significant moment in Philippine history.
The execution followed the Cavite Mutiny, a two-day revolt against Spanish authorities in January 1872.
The priests were accused of being masterminds behind the mutiny, though this accusation remains debatable.
The Gomburza execution sparked widespread outrage and discontent among Filipinos, fueling the burgeoning nationalist movement.

Jose Rizal, a prominent Filipino nationalist, attended Ateneo de Manila, a Jesuit-run university.
Rizal excelled in his studies, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
His education included courses in philosophy, surveying, and medicine.
Rizal's interest in medicine stemmed from his mother's failing eyesight due to cataracts.

Rizal left the Philippines in 1882 without informing his parents.
He aimed to pursue further education in Europe and gain knowledge for his future plans to liberate the Philippines.
Rizal's early writing, "El Amor Patrio," focused on the Philippines.
He studied medicine and philosophy in Madrid, facing financial struggles due to his determination to pursue his education.
During his time in Europe, Rizal actively participated in the Propaganda Movement, advocating for reform and assimilation into Spain.
"La Solidaridad," a publication associated with the movement, was a platform for promoting Filipino rights and criticizing Spanish friars.

Upon his return in 1887, Rizal faced controversy.
Jesuits at Ateneo attempted to bring him back to his old faith, but Rizal stood by his work.
The friars launched attacks on Rizal, questioning his writings and promoting negative narratives.
This period highlighted the growing tension between Rizal's reformist ideals and the Spanish authorities.