The Journey to Universidad Central De Madrid
Jose Rizal, one of the most prominent figures in Philippine history, was not only a writer and a revolutionary but also a scholar. He pursued his studies both locally and internationally, which eventually led him to enroll at the Universidad Central de Madrid.
Rizal left the Philippines in 1882 and traveled to various parts of Europe, including Spain. During his stay in Spain, he enrolled at the Universidad Central de Madrid to study medicine. However, there is some debate surrounding when exactly he enrolled at the university.
The Conflicting Dates
Some sources claim that Rizal enrolled at Universidad Central de Madrid in 1880 while others say it was in 1882. The discrepancy is due to conflicting accounts from different sources as well as the fact that Rizal may have enrolled in courses at the university before officially registering as a student.
Based on available evidence, it seems more likely that Rizal enrolled at the university in 1882. This is supported by records from the university archives that show he registered for courses on October 3rd of that year.
The Impact of Universidad Central De Madrid on Rizal’s Life
Rizal’s time at Universidad Central de Madrid had a significant impact on his life and career. He excelled academically and became involved with social and political groups advocating for change in the Philippines.
- He also wrote some of his most famous works during this time, including “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo”, which were critical of Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines
- Rizal’s exposure to European liberalism and nationalism at the university influenced his political beliefs and advocacy for Philippine independence
- His studies in medicine also gave him a deeper understanding of science and healthcare that he used to benefit his countrymen
Conclusion
While there is some debate surrounding when exactly Rizal enrolled at Universidad Central de Madrid, it is clear that his time at the university was a formative period in his life. His academic success, involvement in social and political groups, and literary output during this time all contributed to his legacy as a national hero of the Philippines.