Copy of UNIT 1 and 2 READINGS_b9634a751ddcf633b18c3752d740ae7e

UNIT 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE COURSE

Overview

• Purpose of Rizal course: To reflect on Rizal’s relevance today.

• Importance: Understanding the Rizal Law in the context of Philippine history.

• Examination: Changing concepts of heroism.

Objectives

• Know the Rizal Law and its significance in educational curricula.

• Identify Rizal's role in Philippine history.

• Discuss various concepts of heroism.

• Analyze 19th-century European conditions and their effects on the Philippines.

• Examine changes in the Philippine colony during the 19th century.

THE STORY

Topic 1: Understanding the Rizal Law

• Creation of Rizal Law: (Republic Act No. 1425) faced significant debate and opposition, especially from the Catholic Church.

• Claro M. Recto: Proposed the Senate Bill No. 438 in 1956; it required the study of Rizal's works in schools.

• Major opposition: Due to the perceived anti-Catholic nature of the required readings (Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo).

Conception

• Need for nationalism: Arisen amid social turmoil post-World War II including issues like the Hukbalahap insurgency and American economic influence.

• Labor and church opposition: The Catholic Church actively campaigned against the bill, mobilizing public opinion and threatening to close schools.

Birth of the Law

• Compromises made: Leading to the approval and signing of the law by President Ramon Magsaysay on June 12, 1956.

• Aim of the law: To instill national values and patriotism among Filipinos.

THE NOURISHMENT

• Relevance of the Rizal Law: Persists today, especially concerning national identity and values amidst social challenges.

• Rizal's writings: Encourage unity and awareness of national history, vital for fostering a contemporary Filipino identity.

• Continuous character development: In society, viewed through the lens of Rizal's ideals.

TOPIC 2: Rizal’s Century

19th Century Philippines in Context of European Developments

• The 19th century was characterized by considerable political upheaval and revolutionary ideas circulating in Europe, which ultimately influenced Filipino nationalism. <br>

Revolutionary Ideas and Nationalism

• Ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity from the French Revolution began to permeate Philippine society, inspiring local reformists and writers to advocate for reforms that would lead to greater autonomy and representation.

• The enlightenment values promoted by European philosophers began to resonate with Filipino intellectuals, nurturing national consciousness and a desire for independence.

19th Century Spain

• Spain experienced significant political instability and waves of revolution during the 19th century, which in turn impacted its colonies like the Philippines.

• The chaos in Spain spurred demands for political reforms in the Philippines, as Filipinos sought representation and increased rights amid the disruptions.

Political and Economic Conditions in the Philippines

• The frequent changes in colonial governors led to poor governance and corruption in administrative practices.

• Nevertheless, economic developments post-1830 improved conditions for the burgeoning middle class, and increased wealth sparked greater nationalist sentiments among Filipinos. <br>

Cultural Developments

• The expansion of education in the 19th century facilitated the rise of a national consciousness among Filipinos.

• Introduction of public education and the growth of intellectual movements encouraged discussions on rights, reforms, and political representation among Filipinos.<br>

Seeds of National Consciousness

• The opening of the Philippines to international trade fostered economic growth and social mobility for some segments of the population, allowing the elite to access wider markets and ideas.

• Contacts with liberal ideas from Europe played a crucial role in stimulating nationalist movements, as educated Filipinos began to envision a nation free from colonial rule.

Conclusion of Section

• The transition towards a national identity can be traced back to the various socioeconomic and political changes in the 19th century.

• Socioeconomic inequalities sparked waves of reform movements, including early activists like Rizal, who fought against these injustices.

FINAL NOTES

• Various cultural and economic shifts contributed to an evolving national consciousness, acknowledged through the reformists and their influence on later generations.