Rizal’s Life – Higher Education and Life Abroad

What is the Propaganda Movement?

• A peaceful reform movement led by Filipino intellectuals and expatriates in the late 19th century.

• Aimed to raise awareness of Spanish abuses and demand political and social reforms in the Philippines.

• Used writings, newspapers, and literary works to advocate for change instead of armed revolution.

Key Objectives of the Movement:

1. Equality between Filipinos and Spaniards under the law.

2. Representation of the Philippines in the Spanish Cortes (parliament).

3. Secularization of Philippine parishes, removing power from Spanish friars.

4. Freedom of speech, press, and assembly.

5. Education reforms to improve literacy and access to learning.

Jose Rizal

Wrote Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, which exposed Spanish abuses

Marcelo H. del Pilar

Editor of La Solidaridad and critic of Spanish friars

Graciano Lopez Jaena

Founder of La Solidaridad, famous for his speeches

Mariano Ponce

Historian and supporter of Filipino culture

Antonio Luna

Writer and journalist, later a general in the revolution

What is La Solidaridad?

• A newspaper published in Spain (1889–1895) that served as the voice of the Propaganda Movement.

• Used to promote Filipino grievances and push for reforms through journalism and essays.

Objectives of La Solidaridad

1. Expose injustices committed by Spanish authorities.

2. Promote the rights and welfare of Filipinos.

3. Encourage liberal reforms and modernization in governance.

4. Unite Filipinos in Spain and the Philippines in a common cause.

Contributions of Jose Rizal to La Solidaridad

• Wrote articles under the pen name “Laong Laan”.

• Exposed Spanish corruption, friar abuses, and social injustices.

• Advocated for Filipino identity and nationalism.

"Los Agricultores Filipinos" (The Filipino Farmers)

• By Jose Rizal

• Criticized the mistreatment of Filipino farmers under Spanish rule.

"La Verdad para Todos" (The Truth for All)

• By Jose Rizal

• Defended Filipino rights and called for reforms

"Frailocracy in the Philippines"

• By Marcelo H. del Pilar

• Attacked the abuse of power by Spanish friars

"En Honor del Presidente Maura"

• By Graciano Lopez Jaena

• Praised Spanish politicians who supported Filipino rights

Impact of La Solidaridad

• Increased awareness of Filipino grievances in Spain and the Philippines.

• Strengthened Filipino nationalism and unity among intellectuals.

• Inspired later movements, including the Philippine Revolution (1896).