José Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda

Born:

June 19, 1861, Calamba, Laguna, Philippines

Died:

December 30, 1896, Bagumbayan (now Rizal Park), Manila, Philippines

Nationality:

Filipino

Profession(s):

Novelist, Poet, Ophthalmologist, Journalist, Reformist, Polymath

Early Life and Education

• Early education was provided by his mother and private tutors.
• Studied at Ateneo Municipal de Manila, graduating with honors.
• Pursued medical studies at the University of Santo Tomas, specializing in ophthalmology.
• Furthered his ophthalmological studies in Madrid, Paris, and Heidelberg.

Career and Major Achievements

• Became a prominent advocate for reforms in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era.
• Founded La Liga Filipina, a civic organization advocating for reforms.
• Exiled to Dapitan in 1892, where he practiced medicine, taught, and engaged in community development projects.
• Arrested and executed for sedition in 1896.

Notable Works

• Noli Me Tángere (1887)
• El Filibusterismo (1891)
• "Mi Último Adiós" (My Last Farewell) - a poem written before his execution.
• Numerous essays and articles advocating for reforms and Philippine nationalism.

Legacy and Impact

José Rizal is considered the national hero of the Philippines. His novels and essays sparked a national consciousness and contributed significantly to the Philippine Revolution. His ideals of freedom, justice, and equality continue to inspire Filipinos today. The phrase 'madrilejos dr jose rizal biography', while appearing as a search query, highlights the continued interest in his life and works.

Detailed Timeline

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