Rizal came from a wealthy Filipino family in Calamba, Laguna. He had 11 siblings and was born in 1861. His parents, Francisco Mercado and Teodora Alonso, provided Rizal with a comfortable upbringing and valued education. At a young age, Rizal displayed strong academic abilities and was tutored at home before entering formal schooling. He had a privileged but traditional Catholic upbringing surrounded by his large and influential family.