Changes in the 19th Century and Their Impact on Rizal

Introduction

• Discuss the changes experienced by the Philippines and the world in the 19th century.
• These changes had a direct impact on Rizal's character.
• Character is shaped not only by genetics but also by many life experiences and events.

Shaping of Character

• Our character is like a jigsaw puzzle; the pieces are experiences and events in our lives.
• Some things are controllable like decisions in saving, exercising, and studying.
• Some things are uncontrollable like circumstances of birth, family, and world events.

Rizal and the 19th Century

• Rizal was born and grew up amidst the Philippines' struggle for independence.
• His perspective was shaped by the social, economic, and political changes of the time.

19th Century: Age of Modernity

• The 19th century is referred to as the "birth of modernity" due to the shift from traditional living to new ideas and institutions.
• Key Changes:
  • Monarchy -> Democracy
  • Feudalism -> Capitalism
  • Passive acceptance -> Reform-minded

Industrial Revolution

• The Industrial Revolution paved the way for new methods of production and communication.
• It resulted in urbanization and the development of cities.

Political Revolutions

• American Revolution and French Revolution: introduced the ideas of individual rights and nationalism.
• These ideas inspired subsequent revolutions.

Impact of Spain's Decline

• Spain weakened while European nations strengthened.
• Economic Decline:
  • Manila-Acapulco trade (Galleon trade) ceased, opening the Philippines to world commerce.
  • Transition to cash crop agriculture.

Economic Development in the Philippines

• Became a supplier of raw materials to Western industries.
• Rise of a wealthy middle class in the Philippines.
• Development of tenants, including Rizal's Mercado family.

Racial Hierarchy and Education

• Racial hierarchy in the Philippines during the Spanish era.
  • Hierarchy: Peninsulares, Creoles, Mestizos, Native Filipinos, Indios.
  • Wealthy families could study in prestigious schools.
• Education:
  • Education became a symbol of status.
  • Educational Decree of 1863: provided opportunities for Filipinos to study.

Educational Reforms

• Return of Jesuits and their contributions to education.
• Ateneo: Provided humanistic education that inspired the idea of nationalism.
• Increase in the literate population in the Philippines.

Rise of Nationalism

• Nationalism rooted in the ideas of liberalism and educational development.
• Ilustrados: Group of educated Filipinos who aspired for freedom.
• Their exposure to liberal ideas in Europe prompted a desire for reform.

Conclusion

• A person's character and experiences are intertwined with their context and time.
• Rizal's life is a reflection of the changes and challenges of his era.
• Issues of oppression and inequality persist, prompting action and reform.