Summary
Highlights
This video explores the Philippine context during the 19th century through political, social, and economic situations to understand Jose Rizal's role in shaping Filipino nationalism.
After King Ferdinand VII's death, Spain faced political instability with the Carlist Wars. This led to frequent changes in Spanish government and the implementation of the Cánovas system (rotation of liberal and conservative parties). The Philippines became a 'dumping ground' for Spanish politicians' relatives and favorites, resulting in frequent changes in its government and opportunities for corruption.
The 19th century saw a shift from mercantilism (wealth measured by gold/silver, exclusive trade within empire) to laissez-faire or free market trade. This opened the Philippines to foreign trade by 1834, increasing wealth for growers and traders of Philippine products like sugar and coffee, and leading to the rise of a middle class, mostly mestizos.
The new middle class, empowered by trade, could send their children to Europe for education. Exposure to European ideas of equality and God-given rights, coupled with the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 which facilitated travel and communication, led to the 'ilustrados' (enlightened ones) questioning Spanish abuses and demanding reforms.
Initially ruled indirectly via Mexico, the Philippines was ruled directly by a Governor-General appointed by the King of Spain after Mexico's independence in 1821. The Governor-General held immense legislative, executive, and judicial power, making him the most powerful official. Checks on this power included the 'Residencia' (investigating outgoing officials) and 'Visitador' (inspecting provinces). The 'Royal Audiencia' served as the supreme court and government oversight.
Below the national government were Alcaldías (peaceful provinces) and Corregimientos (military-controlled provinces not fully under Spanish control). The provincial government was the most corrupt due to the 'indulto de comercio' (right to engage in trade). Towns were governed by Gobernadorcillos, and barrios by Cabeza de Barangays. Spanish friars held significant power due to the union of church and state, often overseeing local affairs and even civil authorities, leading to 'frialocracy'.
The Spanish colonial administration was largely corrupt and inefficient, marked by the governor-general's absolute power. Positions were often bought, leading to unqualified officials, bribery, and misadministration.
The pyramidal social structure was based on 'limpieza de sangre' (purity of blood). Peninsulares (Spaniards born in Spain) were at the top, followed by Insulares (Spaniards born in the Philippines), Creoles (mixed blood, including Ilustrados and Principalia), and finally the Indios (natives) who faced discrimination and forced labor like 'polo y servicio' (forced labor for 40 days) and taxation.
Education was heavily controlled by friars, with a strong emphasis on religion and obedience. Children were often taught they were inferior, leading to a 'culture of silence.' While higher education was limited, the University of Santo Tomas (founded 1611) gradually opened its doors to Filipinos. The Educational Decree of 1863 mandated elementary schools in each town, but friars resisted teaching Spanish to natives, fearing it would foster political awareness and a desire for independence.
The educational system suffered from overemphasis on religion, a limited curriculum, outdated methods, unqualified teachers, inadequate facilities, lack of academic freedom, and racial prejudice. Economically, the opening to foreign trade in 1834 led to the export of agricultural products. This increased contacts with foreigners, allowed the wealthier Filipinos to send their children abroad, and exposed them to intellectual developments in Europe. Other economic policies included the 'Reducción' (resettling communities near churches), 'Bandala' (forced sale of products to Spaniards), 'Polo y Servicio' (forced labor), and various forms of taxation (cedula, tribute).
The Galleon Trade was a significant trading policy that involved exchange of goods between Manila and Acapulco (Mexico), impacting the system of free trading in the Philippines.