19th Century Philippines: Economic Context

Introduction

• Lecture by Joshua Diabegus from BS Chemistry 2H1
• Focus on the economic context of the 19th century Philippines
• Divided into three main aspects: Economic, Social, and Political

Key Historical Elements in Economic Context

1. End of Galleon Trade (1565-1815)

   • Spanish colonization closed ports of Manila to all countries except Mexico
   • Birth of Manila-Acapulco trade (Galleon trade)
     • Initiated by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi's discovery of return route from Cebu to Mexico
   • Central income source for Spanish colonists
   • Exports from Manila:
     • Chinese tea and textiles, Manila tamarind, rice, carabaos, cockfighting, tuba, fireworks
   • Imports to Manila:
     • Flora and fauna (guava, avocado, papaya, pineapple), horses, cattle
   • Chinese merchants played a central role in the trade
   • Tensions between Spaniards and Chinese led to massacres, especially in the 17th century
   • Galleon trade allowed modern liberal ideas to enter the Philippines, inspiring movements for independence
   • Ended on September 14, 1815, due to Mexico's war of independence

2. Opening of the Suez Canal (1869)

   • Reduced travel time from Spain to the Philippines to 32-40 days
   • Significant advantage for commercial enterprises
   • Facilitated the spread of liberal ideas from Europe and America
   • Encouraged Filipino reformers like Jose Rizal to pursue education abroad
   • Increased interactions between Spaniards, Europeans, and local reformers

3. Rise of Export Crop Economy (1820-1870)

   • Post-Galleon trade led to development of an export crop economy
   • Key products for export: sugar, Manila hemp, coffee, tobacco
   • Exploitation of natural resources became prominent
   • Driven by North European and North American merchants
   • Chinese population benefited through distribution of imports and exports

Conclusion

• Economic developments during the 19th century were crucial for the Philippines
• Set the stage for political and social changes leading to eventual independence
• Thank you for watching and listening.