Scientists & Inventors · 19th Century
José Rizal’s Last Words
“Consummatum est. It is finished.”— José Rizal, December 30, 1896
Who Was José Rizal?
José Rizal was the Philippines' most prominent nationalist whose novels sparked a revolution against Spanish colonial rule.
The Final Moments
Rizal was executed by firing squad at Bagumbayan in Manila. He reportedly turned toward the firing squad as he fell.
Are These Words Verified?
Multiple witnesses including his confessor and Spanish officials documented these final words at his execution. Contemporary newspaper accounts and official records corroborate this widely accepted historical fact.
Sources
- firsthand Testimony of Fr. José Villaclara (confessor present)
- archive Official Spanish colonial execution records
- biography Austin Craig - Lineage, Life and Labors of José Rizal
Legacy
Rizal is the national hero of the Philippines; December 30 is Rizal Day, a national holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were José Rizal’s last words?
“Consummatum est. It is finished.”
How did José Rizal die?
José Rizal died on December 30, 1896 at the age of 35. Cause of death: Execution by firing squad.
Were José Rizal’s last words documented?
Multiple witnesses including his confessor and Spanish officials documented these final words at his execution. Contemporary newspaper accounts and official records corroborate this widely accepted historical fact.
More from Scientists & Inventors
See all →
Albert Einstein
“Unknown — he spoke his last words in German to a nurse who did not understand the language.”
Thomas Edison
“It is very beautiful over there.”
Galileo Galilei
“Yet it moves. (Eppur si muove.)”
Charles Darwin
“I am not the least afraid to die.”