WHY EDSA REVOLUTION HAPPENED

The EDSA Revolution, also known as the People Power Revolution, was a series of nonviolent protests in the Philippines that led to the overthrow of President Ferdinand Marcos on February 25, 1986. It was a defining moment in Philippine history and had a profound impact on the country's political and social landscape.

Unrest Under Marcos’ Rule

Ferdinand Marcos ruled the Philippines for more than two decades, from 1965 to 1986. His presidency was marked by economic growth and infrastructure development, but it was also marred by corruption, human rights abuses, and political repression. Marcos' rule became increasingly authoritarian, and he used his power to silence his critics and maintain control.

Growing Opposition

As Marcos' grip on power tightened, opposition to his rule grew. A coalition of opposition groups, including politicians, activists, and religious leaders, emerged to challenge Marcos' authority. They called for reforms, an end to corruption, and the restoration of democracy.

The Assassination of Benigno Aquino Jr.

In 1983, the assassination of Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., a leading opposition figure, became a turning point in the struggle against Marcos. Aquino's death sparked widespread outrage and fueled the opposition movement. It galvanized Filipinos from all walks of life to unite against the Marcos regime.

The Power of People

In February 1986, millions of Filipinos took to the streets of Manila and other cities in a massive show of defiance against Marcos. The protesters, armed with rosaries and flowers, faced down military tanks and soldiers. Their peaceful resistance, coupled with the support of key military and government officials who withdrew their support from Marcos, eventually led to his downfall.

A New Era of Democracy

The EDSA Revolution resulted in the peaceful transfer of power from Marcos to Corazon Aquino, the widow of Benigno Aquino Jr. Aquino became the first female president of the Philippines and ushered in a new era of democracy and freedom in the country.

Legacy of the EDSA Revolution

The EDSA Revolution is celebrated as a triumph of the Filipino people over dictatorship and oppression. It showcased the power of nonviolent resistance and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The revolution inspired similar movements in other countries and became a symbol of hope for those fighting for democracy and human rights.

FAQs

1. What were the main causes of the EDSA Revolution?
The EDSA Revolution was sparked by the assassination of Benigno Aquino Jr., growing opposition to Marcos' authoritarian rule, and widespread corruption and human rights abuses.

2. Who were the key figures involved in the EDSA Revolution?
Opposition leaders such as Corazon Aquino and Salvador Laurel, military officials like Fidel Ramos, and religious leaders like Jaime Cardinal Sin played key roles in the revolution.

3. How did the EDSA Revolution lead to the overthrow of Marcos?
The peaceful protests and civil disobedience during the revolution, coupled with the withdrawal of support from key military and government officials, forced Marcos to step down and flee the country.

4. What were the immediate impacts of the EDSA Revolution?
The EDSA Revolution led to the peaceful transfer of power to Corazon Aquino, the restoration of democracy, and the beginning of a new era of reforms and reconciliation in the Philippines.

5. What is the legacy of the EDSA Revolution?
The EDSA Revolution is remembered as a triumph of nonviolent resistance and a symbol of the power of the people to overthrow oppressive regimes. It continues to inspire similar movements worldwide and stands as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.