The Revolt of the Ma

The Story of Bonifaci

the Katipunan by Teo
Agoncillo

"The Revolt of the Masses: The Story of Bonifacio and the Katipunan" by Teodoro A. Agoncillo is a historical
account that examines the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule, focusing on the role of Andres
Bonifacio and the Katipunan. In the book, Agoncillo explores how the Katipunan, a secret society, mobilized the
ordinary Filipino masses to join the struggle for independence. The book highlights the socio-political context of
the late 19th-century Philippines and how the Katipunan tapped into the grievances and aspirations of the
common people. It discusses the organization's goals, methods, and the role of myth and symbolism in rallying
support for the revolution. "The Revolt of the Masses" provides a detailed analysis of how Bonifacio and the
Katipunan played a crucial role in the broader movement for Philippine independence, emphasizing the agency
of the common people in this significant historical event.

The historical context of the reading is set in the late 19th century, during the period of Spanish colonization in
the Philippines. It was a time of social unrest and discontent among the Filipino masses, who suffered under the
oppressive rule of the Spanish colonial government. The Katipunan, founded by Bonifacio in 1892, aimed to
liberate the Philippines from Spanish control and create a democratic and independent nation.
- 1892: Formation of the Katipunan by Bonifacio.
- 1896: Outbreak of the Philippine Revolution.
- 1897: Execution of Bonifacio and the fragmentation of the revolutionary movement.
- 1898: The Philippines gains temporary independence from Spain following the Spanish-American War.

The reading is significant in understanding Philippine history because it sheds light on the grassroots nature of
the revolution and the crucial role played by Bonifacio and the Katipunan. Agoncillo provides a detailed account
of the political climate at the time, the social and economic conditions that fueled the revolution, and the
motivations of Bonifacio and his comrades in their fight for independence. By focusing on the revolt of the
masses, Agoncillo highlights the importance of ordinary Filipinos in shaping Philippine history. He emphasizes
the role of Filipino nationalism and the desire for self-governance, which were key factors in the revolution. The
book also challenges the traditional narrative that portrays the Filipino elite as the sole drivers of the revolution
and highlights the contributions of the working class and peasants in the struggle for independence.

This reading connects to the broader themes of Philippine history, such as colonialism, nationalism, and social
inequality. It provides insight into the harsh realities of Spanish colonization and the resistance that emerged as
a result. The book also touches on the internal divisions within the revolutionary movement, which ultimately
led to its fragmentation and weakened its ability to fully achieve its goals. Furthermore, the reading highlights
the importance of individuals like Bonifacio in the shaping of Philippine history. Bonifacio's leadership and the
formation of the Katipunan marked a significant turning point in the fight for independence and paved the way