José Rizal, known for his revolutionary ideas and literary works, was a prominent figure in the Philippine reform movement during the late 19th century. As the author of 'Noli Me Tangere' and 'El Filibusterismo', his writings exposed the injustices faced by Filipinos under Spanish colonial rule. For his efforts to advocate for political and social reforms, the Spanish colonial government regarded him as a threat to their authority. In 1896, following the outbreak of the Philippine Revolution, Rizal was arrested, tried for sedition, and ultimately sentenced to death. Despite pleas for clemency, he was executed by a firing squad at Bagumbayan (now known as Luneta Park) in Manila. His execution took place at 7 a.m. on December 30, 1896, and was witnessed by hundreds of people, including many government officials and military personnel.

Rizal's death was not just an end to a life; it marked the beginning of a national awakening among Filipinos. His martyrdom ignited a deeper resentment against Spanish oppression and became a rallying point for Filipino revolutionaries. The propagandists, who previously sought peaceful reforms through Rizal's writings, turned towards violent revolution in the wake of his execution. Rizal’s legacy lived on as he became a symbol of freedom and nationalism, leading to increased support for the revolutionary movement that sought to overthrow colonial rule and establish an independent Philippine state.