Gacula, Samantha Marie DG.

SE3AE
Madrigal, Trixia
Navidad, Tricia Mae
Samsona, Irish Joyce G.

LITERATURE OF THE PHILIPPINES DURING THE AMERICAN OCCUPATIONAL ERA

Written Report

I. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The period of American colonialization of the Philippines was 48 years. It began with the
cession of the Philippines to the U.S. by Spain in 1898 and lasted until the U.S.
recognition of Philippine independence in 1946. The American Period was a significant
era in Philippine history, shaping the country's economy, political structure, and cultural
identity. The period saw both positive and negative consequences, and its impact can
still be felt in the Philippines today. Despite its challenges, the American Period also
helped to lay the foundation for modernization and development in the Philippines, and
the country continues to maintain strong ties with the US.

II. CHARACTERISTICS OF LITERATURE DURING THE AMERICAN PERIOD

The American Period in the Philippines, which lasted from 1898 to 1946, was
characterized by significant changes in the country's literature. During this period,
Filipino writers were exposed to American literature and were influenced by American
literary styles and techniques. Below are some of the characteristics of literature during
the American Period:

● Use of english language

- Many Filipino writers during this period wrote in English, which became
the language of choice for literary expression.
● Western literary influence
- Filipino writers were exposed to American literary styles and techniques,
which they adopted in their works
● Emphasis on nationalism
- Many writers wrote about Philippine history, culture, and identity, and this
helped to develop a sense of national consciousness among Filipinos.
● Social realism
- Writers focused on depicting the social realities of Philippine society,
including poverty, injustice, and corruption
● Experimentation with literary forms
- Many Filipino writers during the American Period experimented with
different literary forms and techniques.
III. FAMOUS LITERARY PIECES DURING THE AMERICAN PERIOD

The American Period in Philippine literature produced a number of famous literary

pieces that reflected the country's social, political, and cultural realities. Below are some
of the most notable works of literature during this period:

● “Dead Stars" by Paz Marquez Benitez - This short story, published in 1925, is
considered a masterpiece of Philippine literature.

● “The Woman Who Had Two Navels" by Nick Joaquin- This novel, published in
1961, is a surrealistic exploration of the Philippines' colonial past and the cultural
identity of Filipinos. It follows the story of a Filipina who has two navels and her
search for identity.

● “My Brother's Peculiar Chicken" by Alejandro R. Roces - This short story,

published in 1958, is a humorous and satirical take on Filipino rural life.

● "America Is in the Heart" by Carlos Bulosan- It explores themes of racism,

discrimination, and the American Dream.