Rizal, José

José Rizal was the National Hero of the Philippines, renowned for his contributions as a writer, thinker, and reformist during the late 19th century. He used his novels, essays, and speeches to advocate for peaceful change and to inspire Filipino national identity against Spanish colonization. His most famous works, "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," exposed social injustices and called for reform. Rizal’s efforts played a pivotal role in inspiring the Philippine independence movement. He is celebrated for his intelligence, patriotism, and commitment to education and social justice, making him a symbol of Filipino national pride.