CHAPTER 1
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19TH CENTURY PHILIPPINES AS RIZAL'S CONTEXT
19TH CENTURY PHILIPPINES AS RIZAL'S CONTEXT
│ “To understand the hero, we must understand his time.”
This chapter explores the transformative 19th-century context that shaped the life and work of José Rizal. It explores the economic shift from the Galleon Trade to export crop economies, monopolies like tobacco, and increased global trade via the Suez Canal. Socially, it highlights the rise of the Chinese Mestizos and Inquilinos, education reforms, and the Ilustrado class that championed nationalism and reform. Politically, it examines the liberal influences from the West, the Bourbon Reforms aiming to centralize Spanish control, and landmark developments like the Cadiz Constitution. Together, these forces fostered growing Filipino consciousness and resistance, laying the groundwork for Rizal’s activism.
THE ECONOMIC CONTEXT
- The end of the Galleon Trade and the opening of the Suez Canal connected the Philippines to the wider world. This led to an increase in exporting crops like sugar and tobacco. At the same time, government-run monopolies, especially the tobacco monopoly, brought in money but also caused hardship and food shortages for many Filipinos.
End of the Galleon Trade (1815)
Galleon trade was a ship trade going back and forth between Manila and Acapulco, Mexico. The trade served as the central income-generating business for Spanish colonists in the Philippines. On September 14, 1815 the Galleon Trade ended with Mexico's war of independence.
Opening of the Suez Canal (1869)
November 17, 1869, marked the official opening of the Suez Canal. The Suez Canal is a man-made, seal-level waterway in Egypt that spans the Suez Isthmus and links the Mediterranean and Red Seas. Under the direction of French diplomat Ferdinand de Lesseps, the Suez Canal Company built it between 1859 and 1869.
Export Crop Economy
Between 1820 and 1870, the Philippines developed an export crop economy, producing goods like sugar, Manila hemp, and coffee for foreign markets, importing European factory goods, and providing opportunities for the expanding Chinese population.
Tabacco Monopoly
Post-galleon era wealth was generated through monopoly contracting, including legalization of opium, special crops, and tobacco, with the tobacco monopoly being the most controversial and oppressive to locals.
THE SOCIAL BACKGROUND
- Education became more available, although still limited to the rich and mestizos at first. New social classes like the Chinese mestizos and Inquilinos began to grow and gain influence. However, problems such as land disputes, high taxes, and unfair working conditions also became more common.
Education Reform
In the 17th century, Spanish-speaking Spaniards and mestizos were taught Latin, with corporal punishment used for discipline. Colleges and universities were established, but only accepting native Filipinos in the 19th century. In 1963, a royal degree established the public school system.
The Rise of Chinese Mestizos
The development of commercial agriculture in the Philippines led to the rise of a new class, the Chinese mestizo class. This class, composed of Spanish and Chinese mestizos, gained power in society, education, and finance. Spanish policy changes, forced assimilation, and business acumen contributed to their rise, boosting their population and economic dominance in the Philippines.
Inquilino System
Inquilino, a term meaning "tenant", was a laborer indebted to a landlord who established a farm on their property. In the 19th century, the Philippines adopted a qualified system of tenancy, allowing inquilino to use land for rent. The system was influenced by the opening of the Suez canal and the elimination of the Galleon trade, leading to increased demand for crop cultivation.
Class Social Heirarchy
In 19th century Philippines, society was stratified into three classes.
Peninsulares
Spaniards born in Spain. Held the highest positions
Insulares
Spaniards born in the Philippines. Generally ranked below Peninsulares, leading to significant resentment.
Spanish Mestizos
Individuals of mixed race. Their status varied depending on their specific lineage and wealth.
Principalía
The native elite who collaborated with Spanish authorities. Held local power but were subordinate to the Spanish.
Chinese Mestizos
Mixed Chinese-Filipino (emerged as an economic force).
Indios
Native inhabitants of the Philippines. Occupied the lowest rung of the social ladder, subject to tribute and forced labor.
Sangleys
Pure-blooded Chinese (sometimes discriminated against).
THE POLITICAL CONTEXT
- Liberal ideas from Europe and America started to enter the country. Reforms like the Cádiz Constitution and the rule of liberal Governor General Carlos María de la Torre encouraged freedom and human rights. These ideas inspired the Ilustrados, a group of educated Filipinos—including Rizal, who spoke out against Spanish rule and pushed for change.
The Rise of Ilustrados
The Ilustrados, a group of educated Filipinos, played a significant role in shaping Philippine nationalism during the late 19th century. They were a blend of Spanish colonial rule, Western education, and a growing sense of Filipino nationalism.
Ilustrados:Catalyst for Change
Advocacy for Reform: Published critiquing Spanish policies for greater Filipino autonomy.
Educational Reform: Established schools and organizations promoting literacy and critical thinking.
Political Activism: Participated in movements challenging Spanish rule and securing Filipino rights.
Opposition to Tyranny: Sought out injustices and abuses by Spanish colonial authorities.
Support for Revolution: Embraced revolutionary movement led by Andres Bonifacio and Emilio Aguinaldo.
Ideals of Self-Governance: Desired a free Philippines free from foreign rule.
Members of the Ilustrados
José Rizal
A renowned writer, physician, and national hero. He wrote the novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, which exposed the injustices of Spanish rule and awakened Filipino national consciousness.
Marcelo H. Del Pilar
A journalist, writer, and political activist who served as editor of the satirical newspaper La Solidaridad. He was a vocal critic of Spanish colonial policies and advocated for greater autonomy for the Philippines.
Graciano López Jaena
A lawyer, journalist, and orator who founded the newspaper La Solidaridad. He was known for his eloquent speeches and his passionate advocacy for Philippine independence.
Juan Luna
A painter known for his masterpiece Spoliarium, which depicted the brutality of Spanish colonial rule. He was also a member of the Propaganda Movement, a group of Filipino intellectuals who sought reforms from Spain.
Félix Resurrección Hidalgo
Another prominent painter who was known for his realistic portrayals of Filipino life. He was also a member of the Propaganda Movement.
Mariano Ponce
A writer, physician, and political activist who was a close friend of José Rizal. He was also a member of the Propaganda Movement and helped to organize the Katipunan, a secret society that launched the Philippine Revolution.
LIBERALISM
Governor General Carlos María de la Torre (1869–1871)
De la Torre became a symbol of liberal and democratic leadership, and inspired Filipino reformers, including José Rizal.
Why He Stood Out:
Advocated for equality and justice
Removed abusive friars from power
Treated Filipino reformists with respect and fairness
Opened the government to Filipino participation
The Bourbon Reforms
The Bourbon reforms, a political and economic revolution in the 18th century, were implemented by the Spanish crown under various kings of the House of Bourbon. They aimed to strengthen the Spanish state, including its colonies like the Philippines, reduce local elite power, and increase crown revenues.
What Changed:
Local elites lost political power to Spanish-born officials (peninsulares)
Financial control moved under the Intendancy System
The military was expanded to defend against foreign threats
The Church’s power was challenged — especially the Jesuits, who were expelled in 1767
The Cadiz Constitution of 1812
A liberal constitution was promulgated in Cadiz in March 1812 Drafted by elected representatives. The constitution established universal male suffrage, national sovereignty, constitutional monarchy, press freedom, land reform, and free enterprises.
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