Jose Rizal

Rizal published his first novel, Noli Me Tangere, in Berlin. The book exposed the corruption and abuses of Spanish colonial rule and the Catholic Church in the Philippines, sparking nationalist sentiment among Filipinos.

Rizal published his second novel, El Filibusterismo, in Ghent, Belgium. A darker sequel to Noli Me Tangere, it advocated for revolution and further criticized Spanish oppression, intensifying calls for reform and independence.

Rizal was exiled by Spanish authorities to Dapitan in Mindanao for his alleged involvement in revolutionary activities. During his four-year exile, he practiced medicine, taught, and conducted scientific research, but remained under surveillance.

Rizal was executed by firing squad in Manila on charges of sedition and rebellion, following a trial by Spanish military court. His martyrdom galvanized the Philippine Revolution, making him a national hero and symbol of resistance.