Dr.

José Rizal is a national hero of the Philippines and a key figure in the country's fight for
independence from Spanish colonial rule. He was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna,
Philippines, and was executed on December 30, 1896, in Manila. Rizal was not only a
revolutionary and a patriot but also a polymath who excelled in various fields. Here is an
overview of his life and works:

**Early Life and Education:**

- Rizal came from a well-educated family and received early education from his mother.
- He pursued further studies in Manila and later went to Europe for higher education, studying
in Spain, Germany, and France.
- He obtained degrees in medicine, ophthalmology, and philosophy, showcasing his intellectual
prowess and versatility.

**Literary and Artistic Works:**

- Rizal was an accomplished writer and poet. His literary works expressed his patriotism and his
concerns about social injustices under Spanish colonial rule.
- His novels, "Noli Me Tangere" (Touch Me Not) and "El Filibusterismo" (The Reign of Greed), are
considered some of the most influential literary works in Philippine history. These novels
exposed the abuses of the Spanish friars and the colonial government.
- Rizal's essays, articles, and letters, such as "The Indolence of the Filipinos" and "Letter to the
Women of Malolos," critiqued the socio-political issues of the time and advocated for reforms.

**Scientific and Intellectual Contributions:**

- Rizal was a skilled ophthalmologist and conducted research on eye diseases during his time in
Europe.
- He was also interested in anthropology and ethnography, studying the cultures, languages, and
traditions of various countries.

**Activism and Nationalism:**

- Rizal was an advocate for peaceful reforms and social justice. He believed that education and
enlightenment were essential to achieving change.
- He was a member of the Propaganda Movement, a group of Filipino expatriates in Europe who
sought political and social reforms for the Philippines.
- Rizal's writings and actions inspired a sense of national identity and unity among Filipinos,
contributing to the country's growing nationalist movement.

**Return to the Philippines and Execution:**

- Rizal returned to the Philippines in 1892 and founded the Liga Filipina, a reformist organization
aimed at promoting civic consciousness and advocating for political reforms.
- His involvement with the Liga Filipina led to his arrest and subsequent exile to Dapitan,
Mindanao.
- Even in exile, Rizal continued his intellectual pursuits, engaging in farming, teaching, and
community service.
- Rizal's execution on December 30, 1896, following his alleged involvement in the Katipunan, a
secret society advocating for independence, solidified his status as a martyr and a symbol of
Philippine nationalism.

**Legacy:**
- Rizal's martyrdom and his writings played a significant role in inspiring the Philippine
Revolution against Spanish colonial rule.
- He is considered the national hero of the Philippines and is celebrated on Rizal Day every
December 30th.
- Rizal's life, works, and ideals continue to be studied and commemorated, serving as a reminder
of the country's struggle for freedom and the importance of education, unity, and patriotism.