Revolutionary Society

During the last week of August 1896 - the exact date and location are disputed -, the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule began with a revolt of members of the Katipunan Revolutionary Secret Society. Membership of the society is estimated around 30.000 in 1896. Katipunan was a society for men, although 20 to 50 members were female. The women were wives or relatives of famous male members. Initiation rites resembled those of Masonry. The rebellion started with the tearing of community tax certificates. Eventually Spanish rule was dismissed, but the Philippines were annexed by the US.