Overview
This lecture discusses the impact and significance of Magellan's 1521 expedition to the Philippines, focusing on its historical, cultural, and political consequences for Filipino society.
Pre-Colonial Philippines and External Contacts
- Prior to Magellan, Filipinos had sophisticated societies with established trade networks, maritime culture, and diplomatic ties across Asia.
- Early records like the Laguna Copperplate Inscription indicate connections with Java, China, and nearby regions.
- Filipinos had their own social systems, traditions, and economic practices such as barangays.
Motives and Context of Magellan’s Voyage
- European mercantilism viewed wealth as tied to gold and valuable commodities, especially spices.
- Spain and Portugal competed for trade routes; the Treaty of Tordesillas divided global spheres of influence.
- Magellan, originally Portuguese, sailed for Spain with five ships and a multinational crew to seek a western route to the Spice Islands (Maluku).
Magellan’s Arrival and Interactions with Locals
- Magellan’s fleet landed at Homonhon in March 1521, receiving help from locals after weeks at sea.
- Early encounters involved diplomatic exchanges, gift-giving, and forging alliances through rituals like the blood compact (sandugo).
- The first Catholic mass in the Philippines was held in Limasawa, attended by local chiefs.
The Events in Cebu
- Magellan arrived in Cebu, where Rajah Humabon was a key trading leader; interactions were both diplomatic and commercial.
- Humabon converted to Christianity, seeing the alliance as a way to consolidate power, and 800 Cebuanos were baptized.
- Magellan offered military aid against local rivals, fueling political dynamics among chiefs.
The Battle of Mactan and Magellan’s Defeat
- Lapulapu of Mactan refused to recognize Humabon and resisted Spanish demands.
- On April 27, 1521, Magellan led a poorly planned attack on Mactan with only 49 men, resulting in his death.
- Factors in the Spanish defeat included unfamiliar geography and underestimating local tactics; the battle was a collective native defense.
Aftermath and Consequences
- Remaining expedition members continued their journey, establishing further contacts in Mindanao and Brunei, and eventually reached the Spice Islands.
- Only one ship, Victoria, and 18 survivors completed the circumnavigation in 1522.
- The expedition proved the world’s roundness and mapped the Philippines for future colonization.
Impact and Historical Legacy
- Magellan’s voyage opened the Philippines to colonization, Christianity, new customs, and incorporation into the global trade route.
- The Battle of Mactan became a symbol of resistance, with Lapulapu celebrated as a national hero.
- Filipino history is now being re-examined through local perspectives, highlighting pre-colonial heritage and historical resilience.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Mercantilism — economic theory where national strength is measured by gold and trade.
- Treaty of Tordesillas — 1494 agreement dividing newly discovered lands between Spain and Portugal.
- Barangay — basic socio-economic unit in pre-colonial Philippines, headed by a chieftain.
- Blood Compact (Sandugo/Kasikasi) — ritual alliance by mixing and drinking blood.
- Circumnavigation — traveling completely around the world.
- Laguna Copperplate Inscription — a 900 AD legal document showing early Filipino diplomacy.
- Galleon Trade — trading system linking the Philippines to Mexico and Spain.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review pre-colonial Philippine culture and trade practices.
- Study the Treaty of Tordesillas and its global impact.
- Read about the Battle of Mactan and Lapulapu’s legacy.
- Consider modern interpretations of Philippine colonial history.