Jose Rizal, full name Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda, is one of the most

prominent figures in the history of the Philippines. He was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba,
Laguna, which was then part of the Spanish colonial Philippines. Rizal played a pivotal role in
the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule and is celebrated as a national hero in the
Philippines.
Here is an overview of the life of Jose Rizal:
Early Life and Education:
Rizal came from a well-educated and affluent family. His parents were Francisco Mercado and
Teodora Alonzo, both of whom were of mixed Filipino, Chinese, and Spanish descent.
He began his education at a young age and showed exceptional academic abilities. He attended
various schools in the Philippines and was eventually sent to Manila for higher education.
Studies Abroad:
In 1882, Rizal traveled to Spain to pursue further studies. He enrolled at the Universidad Central
de Madrid and studied medicine and the liberal arts.
During his time in Spain, Rizal became involved with Filipino expatriate groups advocating for
reforms and independence from Spanish colonial rule.
Writings and Advocacy:
Rizal was not only a skilled writer but also a prolific one. He wrote essays, poems, novels, and
letters that addressed the injustices and abuses of the Spanish colonial government.
His most famous works include "Noli Me Tangere" (Touch Me Not) and "El Filibusterismo"
(The Reign of Greed), both of which exposed the harsh realities of colonial life and corruption.
Rizal advocated for peaceful reforms and social justice, hoping to achieve change through
education and enlightenment.
Return to the Philippines:
In 1892, Rizal returned to the Philippines, despite knowing the risks to his life. He believed that
his presence could help initiate reforms.
However, his activities and writings were closely monitored by Spanish authorities, and he was
eventually arrested and imprisoned in Fort Santiago in Manila.
Execution:
On December 30, 1896, Rizal was executed by firing squad at Bagumbayan, now known as
Luneta Park in Manila. His execution sparked outrage and galvanized the Filipino revolutionary
movement.
Rizal's death is commemorated annually as "Rizal Day" in the Philippines, a national holiday.
Legacy:
Jose Rizal is considered the national hero of the Philippines for his contributions to the country's
struggle for independence.
His writings and ideas inspired the Katipunan, a revolutionary society led by Andres Bonifacio,
which eventually led to the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule.
Rizal's works continue to be studied and revered in the Philippines, and his life and writings have
left a lasting impact on the nation's history and identity.
Jose Rizal's life and works remain a symbol of Filipino nationalism, patriotism, and the quest for
freedom from colonial oppression. His legacy is celebrated not only in the Philippines but also
among Filipino communities around the world.