In the Philippines:
1. Spanish Rule: The Philippines was a colony of Spain since the mid-1500s, and Spanish rule significantly influenced Philippine society, culture, and politics. The Spanish friars had significant control over education, religion, and social affairs.
2. Economic Struggles: The Philippine economy was primarily based on agriculture, and the peasantry faced widespread poverty and exploitation.
3. Colonial Education: Rizal was a product of Spanish education, attending prestigious schools like Ateneo Municipal de Manila and the University of Santo Tomas. However, Filipino's opportunity to higher education was limited.
4. Social Inequalities: The Spanish colonial society was highly stratified, with Filipinos facing discrimination and restricted opportunities in various aspects of life.
5. Filipino Enlightenment: This period saw the rise Filipino intellectuals and reformers, including Rizal, who advocated for reforms, human rights, and greater political autonomy from Spain.
In the World:
1. Industrial Revolution: The Philippines also experienced the effects of the Industrial Revolution, transforming global economies and societies through advancements in technology and manufacturing.
2. European Imperialism: European powers, including Spain, were actively expanding their colonial empires during this time, leading to imperialism and competition for colonies and resources.
3. Scientific Developments: The 19th century witnessed significant breakthroughs in science, such as the development of the telegraph, photography, and the germ theory of disease.
4. Political Unrest: Europe underwent significant political changes, with revolutions and movements challenging traditional monarchies and empires. The French Revolution (1789) was notable example of this period.
5.Cultural Movements: Romanticism and Realism were prominent cultural movements during Rizal's time, reflected in literature, arts, and intellectual thought.
6. Globalization: The Philippines was impacted by the increasing global interconnectedness, as trade, communication, and the exchange of ideas expanded across the word.
Rizal's life and work were both influenced and shaped by these historical context, and he played a crucial role in challenging Spanish colonial rule and inspiring the Philippine Revolution. His writing, which exposed the inequalities and abuses of Spanish authority, contributed to the growing nationalism and desire for independence in the Philippines.