Overview of Philippine History

Geography and Early Inhabitants

• The Philippines consists of over 7,000 islands, inhabited by over 100 million people.
• Historically a melting pot in Asia due to its location.
• Early cultures were small, independent bands of seafarers.
• Development of terraced farmland with ancient irrigation systems.

Sahawin Culture and Early Trade

• Extensive trade and cultural ties characterized the Sahawin culture.
• Imported goods: gold, glass, bronze weapons, tools, and mirrors.
• Similar art and jewelry styles; cremation was common.
• Possible ancestors of the Cham people of Vietnam.

Migration and Cultural Influences (300 AD - 1000)

• Influence of the Srivijaya Empire led to the migration of Malay people.
• Introduction of Buddhism and Hinduism.
• Formation of Barangays, led by headmen (datus) and rajas.

Development of Tondo

• Tondo, a significant trading hub, located on Luzon.
• The Laguna Copper Plate Inscription indicates Tondo's historical significance.
• Governed by a Lakhan, democratically selected.
• Controlled much of Luzon through alliances and warfare.

Other Historical States

• Ifugao: A long-lasting self-sufficient, landlocked state.
• Mai: Had diplomatic relations with Song Dynasty China.
• Madhaas Confederacy: Rivalry with Tondo; warred with the Chinese Navy.
• Rajne of Cebu: Founded by a prince from the Indian Chola dynasty.
• Rajneet of Bhutan: Known for mining and trade networks.
• Kingdom of Kabilawan: Tributary to Ming Dynasty.

Influence of Islam and European Encounters

• Bruneian Empire expanded into the archipelago, establishing Maynila.
• Sultanate of Maguindanao had relations with Dutch and English.
• The Spanish expedition led by Fernão de Mahalás in 1521.
• The Rajah of Cebu aligned with Spain and converted to Catholicism.

Spanish Colonization and Impact

• Spanish renaming of the islands to Las Filipinas in 1543.
• Manila becomes a bustling port city and capital of Spanish East Indies.
• Moro raids by the Sulu Sultanate.
• Spanish language domination; regional dialects declined.

American and Japanese Influence

• Post-Spanish-American War, Philippines became an American commonwealth.
• Japanese occupation during WWII led to significant civilian casualties.
• Post-war, returned to American commonwealth status.

Establishment of the Philippine Republic

• Became a republic in 1946.
• Ferdinand Marcos's dictatorship from 1972-1981; known for corruption.
• Marcos replaced by Maria Corazon Aquino after a snap election.

Present Governance

• Followed by five more presidents.

Conclusion

• This encapsulates a brief history of the Philippines, highlighting major cultural, political, and socio-economic developments.