“The main cause of the Philippine Revolution (1896) was the nature of Spanish rule.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the main cause of the Philippine Revolution (1896) was the nature of Spanish rule. Candidates may discuss the despotic and tyrannical rule by the Spanish colonial government, including their policies of divide and rule and the harsh suffering of the population due to commercial exploitation by the Spanish nobility. The clergy opposed Spanish dominance of the Filipino Catholic Church and expressed dismay at Spanish repression following the Cavite Revolt (1872), during which three priests became martyrs. Rizal campaigned extensively against corruption and oppression by Spanish officials. Spanish colonization brought uniformity, reformed educational policies, the printing press and modern means of communication. Candidates may argue that this led to a national awakening and liberalism. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.