Gabriela Silang Biography – Who is Gabriela Silang? Gabriela Silang was a pioneering Filipino military leader known for her role in the fight for independence from Spanish colonization. Her leadership and bravery have left an enduring legacy in the history of the Philippines.
In this article we are going to talk about the biography, career, notable works of Gabriela Silang so read the article till the end..
Gabriela Silang Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | María Josefa Gabriela Cariño de Silang |
| Date of Birth | March 19, 1731 |
| Place of Birth | Caniogan, Santa, Ilocos, Philippines |
| Date of Death | September 20, 1763 |
| Cause of Death | Executed by hanging |
| Husband | Tomás Millan (m. 1751), Diego Silang (m. 1757–1763) |
| Known For | First female leader of the revolutionary movement against Spanish colonizers |
Early Life and Background
María Josefa Gabriela Cariño de Silang, known as Gabriela Silang, was born on March 19, 1731, in the barrio of Caniogan, Santa, Ilocos. Her father, Anselmo Cariño, was a Spanish Ilocano trader, and her mother was a Tinguian woman from San Quintin (now Pidigan, Abra). Gabriela received a Catholic upbringing and elementary education at the town’s convent school, under the care of a parish priest after being separated from her parents early in her childhood.
Marriages and Personal Life
Gabriela Silang’s first marriage was arranged by the priest who raised her. In 1751, she married Tomás Millan, a wealthy businessman, but he passed away three years later. In 1757, she married Diego Silang, a revolutionary leader. Together, they fought against Spanish rule until Diego’s assassination in 1763.
Role in the Revolutionary Movement
After the assassination of her second husband, Diego Silang, in 1763, Gabriela Silang took over the leadership of the Ilocano independence movement. As the first female leader of the revolutionary movement against Spanish colonizers, she led her people for four months, demonstrating remarkable resilience and courage. However, her resistance came to an end when she was captured and executed by hanging on September 20, 1763.
Legacy and Honors
Gabriela Silang is often referred to as the “Joan of Arc of Ilocandia” for her bravery and leadership. Her legacy continues to inspire, and several honors have been named after her, including the Order of Gabriela Silang, a third-class national decoration in the Philippines restricted to women. The Gabriela Women’s Party, founded in April 1984, advocates for women’s rights in her honor. Additionally, the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301), a Philippine Coast Guard vessel, and asteroid 7026 Gabrielasilang are named after her.
Conclusion
Gabriela Silang’s story is one of courage, resilience, and dedication to her people’s fight for freedom. Her leadership and sacrifice have cemented her place in the annals of Philippine history, inspiring future generations to strive for justice and equality.
FAQs
1. What was Gabriela Silang’s full name?
María Josefa Gabriela Cariño de Silang.
2. What was the cause of Gabriela Silang’s death?
Gabriela Silang was executed by hanging.
3. Who were Gabriela Silang’s husbands?
Gabriela Silang was married to Tomás Millan from 1751 until his death and later to Diego Silang from 1757 until his assassination in 1763.
