Who Was Jose Rizal?
EDUCATION & EUROPEAN INFLUENCE
Rizal studied at Ateneo Municipal de Manila, where he excelled academically and developed his intellectual discipline. He later attended the University of Santo Tomas before traveling to Spain in 1882.
In Europe, he earned a medical degree at Universidad Central de Madrid and specialized in ophthalmology in Germany and France. His exposure to liberal ideas strengthened his belief in reform through education and civil equality.
His intellectual formation shaped the reformist ideology that continues to inspire civic leadership.
MAJOR WORKS
Rizal authored two foundational novels:
• Noli Me Tángere
• El Filibusterismo
These works criticized corruption, injustice, and abuse under colonial rule.
They awakened public awareness and helped shape the intellectual groundwork of Filipino nationalism.
As members of the Knights of Rizal, we study these writings as enduring lessons in ethical leadership and civic responsibility.
MARTYRDOM
& NATIONAL LEGACY
On December 30, 1896, Rizal was executed at Bagumbayan (now Rizal Park in Manila). His death intensified the reform movement and solidified his place as a national martyr.
Rizal Day is commemorated annually across the Philippines and worldwide — including by the New Jersey Chapter — to honor his sacrifice and reflect on his ideals.
His legacy reminds us that leadership demands courage, discipline, and moral conviction.
🔘 See How We Honor Rizal in New Jersey