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The Martyrdom of Dr. José Rizal . This is my entry for the "Best Lego Diorama of a Philippine Historical Event" contest. The background music is called "Bayan Ko" (My Country) by Constancio de Guzman. .
“I die without seeing the dawn brighten over my native land! You, who have it to see, welcome it—and forget not those who have fallen during the night!"
- an excerpt from Noli Me Tángere, a novel by Dr. José Rizal
In 1896, when the Philippine Revolution was launched against Spain, Dr. José Rizal was arrested on false charges that he was the leader of the rebellion. He was subjected under a mock trial and was convicted of insurrection, which was punishable by death. On the eve of his execution, Rizal wrote an untitled poem, which became known as "Mi Último Adiós" (My Last Farewell). He was publicly executed by firing squad at Bagumbayan.[1]
His request to be allowed to face his executioners was denied as being out of the power of the commanding officer to grant, though Rizal declared that he did not deserve such a death, for he was no traitor to Spain. [2]
It was promised, however, that his head should be respected, and as unblindfolded and erect Rizal turned his back to receive their bullets, he twisted a hand to indicate under the shoulder where the soldiers should aim so as to reach his heart. [2]
Then as the volley came, with a last supreme effort of will power, he turned and fell face upwards, thus receiving the subsequent "shots of grace" which ended his life, so that in form as well as fact he did not die a traitor's death.[2]
What can be heard from the crowd of Spaniards was their loud, audible voice, shouting “Long live Spain! Death to traitors!” Dr. José Rizal died at exactly 7:03 in the morning of December 30, 1896.[3]
TEXT REFERENCES:
[1] http://www.globalpinoy.com/ch/ch_category.php?category=heroes&name=Jose%20Rizal&table=ch_heroes&startpage=1&endpage=15
[2] http://www.fullbooks.com/Lineage-Life-and-Labors-of-Jose-Rizal4.html
[3] http://en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=Jose_Rizal:_Trial_and_Martyrdom_at_Bagumbayan
VISUAL REFERENCES:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Rizal_execution.jpg
http://www.philippines-archipelago.com/author/visited/metro_manila/rizal_park_execution.jpg
BACKGROUND MUSIC:
“Bayan Ko” (My Country) by C. De Guzman (Arranged by Jose Valdez)
performed by pasigenyo.
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