In 1889-1890, Rizal wrote this geopolitical analysis for publication in La Solidaridad. Nevertheless, this is not the only source for us to know how he read world events and their impact on the Philippines. In letters to friends, unpublished research drafts, and public statements made at different times, Rizal expressed his deep preoccupations with what he perceived were conjunctural developments that Filipinos needed to be aware of. He believed that only by understanding these could they respond adequately and correctly to the challenges that would unexpectedly come their way as they contended with Spain for national emancipation.