KnowHistoryKnowSelf #6: Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr.

Summary

The transcript recounts the life, struggles, and enduring legacy of Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., a key figure in Philippine history who opposed Ferdinand Marcos' dictatorship. Born in 1932 in Tarlac, Ninoy rose to prominence as a mayor, senator, and fearless critic of authoritarian rule. Imprisoned during Martial Law, he staged a 40-day hunger strike and was later exiled for medical treatment in the U.S. Tragically assassinated upon returning in 1983, his death sparked national outrage. His wife, Cory Aquino, carried forward his vision, leading the 1986 People Power Revolution and becoming the country’s first female president. Ninoy is remembered as a martyr whose dedication inspired the fight for democracy.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ninoy Aquino was a prominent figure in the Philippines' struggle for democracy during the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos.
• 😀 Born in 1932, Ninoy Aquino came from a wealthy, land-owning family and was educated in elite schools.
• 😀 Aquino's political career began in 1955 when he was elected mayor of his hometown at just 22 years old.
• 😀 He married Maria Corazon 'Cory' Sumulong in 1954, and together they had five children, including the current president, Noynoy Aquino III.
• 😀 Ninoy became a national figure as a senator, where he strongly opposed the rule of President Marcos.
• 😀 Aquino was unlawfully imprisoned by Marcos following the declaration of martial law in 1972, spending much of his time in solitary confinement.
• 😀 During his imprisonment, Aquino staged a 40-day hunger strike, losing nearly a third of his body weight in protest.
• 😀 Aquino was released from prison in 1980 to receive medical treatment in the United States, where he used his time to rally international opposition to Marcos.
• 😀 Ninoy Aquino was assassinated on August 21, 1983, upon returning to the Philippines, sparking widespread outrage and grief.
• 😀 His wife, Cory Aquino, carried on the struggle for democracy, ultimately becoming the Philippines' first female president after the People Power Revolution of 1986.

Q & A

Who was Benigno 'Ninoy' Aquino Jr.?

Benigno 'Ninoy' Aquino Jr. was a Filipino politician, journalist, and prominent critic of Ferdinand Marcos. He became a national figure for his opposition to dictatorship and is remembered as a martyr for Philippine democracy.

When and where was Ninoy Aquino born?

Ninoy Aquino was born in 1932 in Tarlac, Philippines, into a prominent land-owning family.

What was Ninoy Aquino's early political career?

Ninoy Aquino began his political career by being elected mayor of his hometown in 1955 at the age of 22, before later serving as a senator.

Why was Ninoy Aquino imprisoned during Marcos' presidency?

He was unlawfully imprisoned following Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of martial law in 1972 because of his vocal criticism of the regime and his opposition to the dictatorship.

How long was Ninoy Aquino imprisoned, and what were the conditions?

He was imprisoned for eight years, much of which was spent in solitary confinement. During this time, he staged a 40-day hunger strike and lost nearly a third of his body weight.

What led to Ninoy Aquino's temporary release from prison?

In 1980, he suffered a heart attack, which led to his release from prison for medical treatment in the United States, where he continued advocating for Philippine democracy.

When was Ninoy Aquino assassinated, and under what circumstances?

Ninoy Aquino was assassinated upon his return to the Philippines on August 21, 1983. His assassination cut short his efforts to restore democracy in the country.

Who continued Ninoy Aquino's fight for democracy after his death?

His wife, Cory Aquino, continued his fight. She became a key figure in the peaceful 1986 People Power Revolution that overthrew Marcos and restored democracy.

What was Cory Aquino's contribution to Philippine politics?

Cory Aquino became the first female president of the Philippines, serving as a symbol of democratic struggle. Her hand gesture symbolizing 'struggle or fight' became an iconic representation of the revolutionary movement.

What is Ninoy Aquino's enduring legacy?

Ninoy Aquino is remembered as a martyr for Philippine democracy. His famous statement, 'The Filipino is worth dying for,' continues to inspire reflection on sacrifice, civic responsibility, and dedication to the nation.

How did Ninoy Aquino's time in exile contribute to the opposition against Marcos?

During his medical exile in the US from 1980 to 1983, Ninoy Aquino used his time to foster international opposition to the Marcos dictatorship, raising awareness and support for Philippine democracy abroad.

What personal sacrifices did Ninoy Aquino make for his political beliefs?

Ninoy sacrificed his personal freedom, endured harsh imprisonment and solitary confinement, and risked his life by returning to the Philippines despite knowing the dangers, ultimately leading to his assassination.