Overview
The lesson discussed the methods and policies used by the Americans in the colonization of the Philippines, as well as the Filipino response to this colonialism.
Western Colonization and Filipino Nationalism
- The Philippines experienced a long period of Spanish colonization before the Americans arrived.
- Filipinos had various ways of fighting for freedom, such as the struggles of Lapu-Lapu, Gomburza, Rizal, and Bonifacio.
- The lack of unity was the reason for the failure of the propaganda movement for reform.
Methods of American Colonization
- The Treaty of Paris was signed in 1898, transferring the Philippines from Spain to America.
- Two policies: Pacification (quieting) and Assimilation (spreading culture and education).
Colonial Laws and Policies
- Sedition Act: Prohibited the expression of support for freedom.
- Brigandage Act: Considered those who opposed or fought the American government as bandits.
- Reconcentration Act: Relocation of Filipinos to camps to cut off support for rebels.
- Flag Law: Prohibited the display of flags and symbols of rebellion.
Benevolent Assimilation Policy
- Public education was promoted using English.
- Pensionado Act: Scholarship for Filipinos to study in the U.S.
- Manifest Destiny and White Man's Burden were used as justifications.
Civil Government and Bureaucratic Model
- The Civil Government was established in 1901 under the leadership of William Howard Taft.
- The Philippine Commission (upper house) and Philippine Assembly (lower house) formed the legislature.
- In 1916, Filipinos were given more participation in government but it was still controlled by the Governor General and the U.S. Congress.
Filipino Reaction and Revolt
- Aguinaldo declared independence on June 12, 1898, but it was delayed because of America.
- Filipinos did not recognize American colonialism, and the Philippine-American War continued (1899-1902).
- Antonio Luna led the fight in Manila; Aguinaldo was captured in 1901.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Treaty of Paris — Agreement transferring governance of the Philippines from Spain to the United States.
- Sedition Act — Law prohibiting the expression of freedom against the U.S.
- Brigandage Act — Law declaring patriots as bandits.
- Reconcentration Act — Policy of relocating villagers to a single area.
- Flag Law — Law prohibiting the display of flags/symbols of rebellion.
- Pensionado Act — Provided scholarships for Filipinos to study in the U.S.
- Benevolent Assimilation — Policy showing "kind" colonization and spreading American culture.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Create a poster, slogan, or poem about the type of government and American policies in the Philippines.
- Answer: If you were Aguinaldo, how would you respond to the American letter about their colonization?
- Review again the important laws and key events of the American period.