19TH CENTURY
In the late 18th century, European political and economic changes began to impact Spain and the Philippines. The elimination of the galleon monopoly in Acapulco stimulated trade, leading to increased demand for Philippine sugar and hemp. The Suez Canal completed in 1869 further expanded exports to Europe. Commercial agriculture led to the emergence of a new class, with haciendas of coffee, hemp, and sugar owned by Chinese-Filipino mestizos.
PROPAGANDA
Public education in the Philippines only became available in 1863, with the church controlling the curriculum. By the 1880s, many sons of wealthy Filipinos were sent to Europe to study, leading to the Propaganda Movement. This movement produced political novels, such as "Noli me tangere" and "El filibusterismo." José Rizal, a prominent figure in this movement, produced two political novels that had a wide impact on the Philippines.
La Liga Filipina
In 1892, Rizal returned home and formed the Liga Filipina, a reform-minded society loyal to Spain. However, he was arrested by the Spanish, exiled to a remote island, and executed in 1896. Within the Philippines, a less privileged class developed a firm commitment to independence.
NATIONALISM
Katipunan
Shocked by Rizal's arrest, activists formed the Katipunan under Andres Bonifacio, dedicated to the expulsion of the Spanish from the islands and prepared for armed revolt. Filipino rebels, inspired by nationalist ambitions and possessing the necessary education, were the first to achieve success in the Philippines.