World History: Colonial Expansion and Unification

Historical Context and Global Events

• Maximillian was executed on June 19, a notable event reflecting political tensions.
• Unification movements succeeded in Italy and Germany during this period.
• England emerged as the world's leading imperialist power, asserting dominance over global trade and territories.
• Queen Victoria famously claimed, "Britannia rules the waves," emphasizing British naval superiority.
• The Opium Wars exemplified conflicts driven by imperial interests and trade disputes.

British Colonial Holdings

• Key colonies included Ceylon (Sri Lanka), Maldives, Aden, Malaysia, Singapore, Egypt, Australia, and New Zealand—reflecting British expansion in Asia and beyond.

Japan’s Opening to the West

• Commodore Matthew C. Perry re-opened Japan on June 8, 1853, ending 214 years of isolation, significantly altering Japanese foreign relations.
• Emperor Meiji (Mutsuhito) embraced Western influences, driving Japan's modernization and engagement with imperial powers.

The Philippines Under Spanish Rule

• Filipinos faced systemic injustices under colonial rule, marked by instability and corruption in governance.
• Lack of representation in the Spanish Cortes deprived Filipinos of a political voice.
• Human rights violations and unequal application of laws led to widespread discrimination and exploitation.
• Forced labor (Polo y Servicios) further exacerbated economic disparities, while friars controlled vast agricultural lands.

Jose Rizal's Ancestry and Family Background

• Jose Rizal was a product of diverse heritage, influenced by Malayan, Chinese, and Spanish ancestry.
• He was born to the Mercado-Rizal family, notable for their mixed racial lineage and engagement in local affairs.
• Rizal’s great-great-grandfather was Domingo Lameo, a Chinese immigrant who became a Christian merchant.

Rizal's Early Life

• Jose Rizal was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, and baptized shortly after.
• His father, Francisco Mercado Rizal, was a respected tenant farmer and educator; his mother, Teodora Alonso Realonda, was cultured and knowledgeable, deeply influencing Rizal's education and writing.

Family Composition

• Jose Rizal was the seventh of eleven siblings, sharing a complex familial relationship marked by diverse cultural influences and educational aspirations.

Early Education and Experiences

• Rizal's education began with strict, traditional methods; he attended a private school in Biñan, which emphasized memorization.
• He faced early adversity, including bullying, but displayed resilience and a desire to excel academically.

Higher Education Achievements

• At Ateneo, Rizal excelled academically, graduating with highest honors in 1876-77 at age 16, indicating exceptional intellect and diligence.
• Pursued a land surveying course; completed training by 1878, and successfully passed the licensing exam in 1881.

Influential Literature

• Rizal’s studies included significant works such as "The Count of Monte Cristo" and "Travels in the Philippines," shaping his worldview and literary aspirations.

Conclusion

• Rizal's formative years were characterized by rich cultural heritage, educational pursuits, and a growing consciousness of national identity that would later fuel his advocacy for Philippine independence.

Explore significant events in world history from the 19th century, including the unification of Italy and Germany, the impact of British imperialism, and the opening of Japan. Test your knowledge of British colonies and pivotal moments like the Opium Wars and Commodore Perry's expedition.