Lecture Notes: The Philippines in the 19th Century

Background Context

• 19th century: Period of vast changes in Europe, Spain, and the Philippines.
• Key events: Industrial Revolution, French Revolution, and American Revolution.
• Jose Rizal: Grew up during this period, significant influence on his thoughts.
• Age of Enlightenment: Birth of modern life, nations, and states.
• Importance of understanding socio-political surroundings to perceive Rizal's thoughts.

Major Changes and Revolutions

Industrial Revolution

• Transformation: Production, transportation, and communication shifted from manual labor to machines.
• Galleon Trade: Steamship trade route between Acapulco, Mexico, and the Philippines.
  • Took months for import and export.

Opening of the Suez Canal

• Location: Egypt, man-made canal
• Impact: Shortened trade routes, leading to economic and social changes.
• Effects on Philippine Economy:
  • Prosperous life due to economic activities.
  • Modern methods of agriculture.
  • Improved transportation and communication.
  • Emergence of middle class.
  • More Filipinos studying in Europe.
  • Acquisition of material wealth and improved social life.

French Revolution

• Era: Political and social upheaval, radical change.
• Impact: Transformed governmental structure from absolute monarchy.

American Revolution

• Second Half of 18th Century: Political upheaval.
• Impact: Concept of colonized people gaining independence.
• Changed economic and political dynamics in the Philippines.

Specific Changes in the Philippines

• Abolition of Galleon Trade: Opened Philippines to world trade and agricultural development.
• Social Stratification Under Spanish Colonization:
  • Peninsulares: Spaniards born in Spain, highest class, government positions.
  • Insulares: Spaniards born in the Philippines, enjoyed luxury.
  • Creoles: Mixed Spanish and Filipino heritage.
  • Illustratos/Principalia: Well-educated Filipinos, land owners.
  • Natives (Indias): Lowest class.

Rizal’s Family and Education

• Middle Class: Illustratos or affluent; could study in exclusive schools in Manila and abroad.
• Defects in Spanish Education System:
  • Emphasis on religion.
  • Lack of academic freedom.
  • Racial discrimination.
  • Limited curriculum.
• Opportunities from Suez Canal:
  • Allowed middle-class families to send children to study in Spain.
  • Filipino students in Spain became aware of injustices by Spaniards.

Rise of Reform Movement

• Jose Rizal: Birth in 1861, significant figure in reform movement.