Overview
This lecture covers the pre-colonial history of the Philippines, focusing on early migrations, the formation of societies, trade, external influences, and the legacy of pre-colonial culture.
Early Human Settlement
- The Philippine archipelago consists of 7,107 islands in Southeast Asia.
- Human habitation in the Philippines dates back as far as 67,000 years ago.
- The Negritos, early dark-skinned hunter-gatherers, arrived from mainland Asia about 30,000 years ago.
- The Negritos are believed to be descendants of early human populations migrating from Africa to Southeast Asia.
Austronesian and Polynesian Migrations
- Austronesians migrated from Taiwan about 4,000–6,000 years ago, bringing seafaring skills and agriculture.
- The Austronesians introduced advanced technology such as pottery and metalworking.
- Some scholars suggest Polynesians also settled in the Philippines around 2,000 years ago, evidenced by pottery similarities.
Early Societies and Cultures
- Austronesians developed a rich oral tradition of stories and myths.
- The shift to agriculture led to sedentary societies and food surpluses for trade.
- Trade connected the Philippines to China, Southeast Asia, and India.
- Early political units, called barangays, were led by datus who held both political and religious authority.
- Social classes emerged—ruling elite, commoners, and eventually slaves.
External Influences and Kingdoms
- Northern regions adopted Chinese customs like ancestor worship; southern areas absorbed Hinduism, Buddhism, and later Islam.
- Major pre-colonial kingdoms included Tondo, Maynila, Butuan, and Sulu.
- The spread of Islam began in the 13th century via Muslim traders and missionaries, leading to the formation of sultanates.
Trade and Cultural Exchange
- The Philippines was a major maritime trade center, exporting goods like rice, cotton, and gold.
- Trade routes connected the archipelago to the Silk Road and later to the Americas via the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade.
- Cultural exchanges resulted in a blend of indigenous, Chinese, Indian, and Islamic traditions.
Legacy of Pre-Colonial Philippines
- Pre-colonial influences remain in contemporary Philippine society, especially among indigenous and Muslim communities.
- Traditional practices, beliefs, and cultural expressions are still observed in art, literature, and music.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Negritos — Early hunter-gatherers considered the first inhabitants of the Philippines.
- Austronesians — A seafaring people from Taiwan who settled in the Philippines and influenced culture and technology.
- Barangay — A small village community led by a datu in pre-colonial Philippines.
- Datu — The leader of a barangay with political and religious authority.
- Sultanate — Islamic kingdom governed by a sultan, particularly in Mindanao and Sulu.
- Animism — Belief in spirits and nature worship, practiced by many indigenous groups.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review key dates and groups involved in early Philippine history for upcoming quizzes.
- Read about specific pre-colonial kingdoms (Tondo, Maynila, Sulu) in the course textbook.
- Prepare notes on the impact of trade and cultural exchanges on Philippine identity.