Aaron Grayson Cañeban Bachelor of Arts in Literature 1 “Reading in Philippine

History”

Lesson 13: The 1 st Cry of Revolution

According to historian Teodoro Agoncillo, Bonifacio’s tearing of the Cedula before a crowd
of Katipuneros was an integral part of the Cry of the Philippine Revolution. The Cedula was
a document that symbolized the chain that shackled Filipinos to a life of subjection and
misery under foreign oppression. The act of tearing it to pieces was a powerful gesture of
open defiance against the Spanish rule in the country. It signaled the start of the Philippine
revolution against Spain which was followed by a series of fierce fighting of Filipino bolos
and spears versus Spanish muskets.

The tearing of the Cedula was a significant event in Philippine history as it marked the
beginning of the Philippine Revolution against Spain. It was a symbolic act that represented
the Filipinos’ desire for freedom and independence. The event is also known as the “Cry of
Pugad Lawin” and is considered a turning point in Philippine history.

It's essential to note that historical accounts sometimes differ, and there is debate among
historians about the accuracy of certain details surrounding Bonifacio's actions. Some
argue that the specific act of tearing the cedula might have been symbolic rather than an
actual event. Nevertheless, the symbolism associated with the cedula and Bonifacio's role
as a revolutionary leader remains a crucial aspect of Philippine history.

Lesson 14: The Declaration of Independence

The USA could have won these Spanish colonies through battles, but it chose to “buy” them
instead. There were several reasons for this decision. Firstly, the USA wanted to expand its
influence and territory beyond its borders. Secondly, the USA wanted to establish itself as a
global power and a dominant force in the Western Hemisphere. Thirdly, the USA wanted to
gain access to new markets and resources. Fourthly, the USA wanted to spread its
democratic ideals and values to other parts of the world. Finally, the USA wanted to
prevent other European powers from acquiring these territories.

The United States, led by figures like President William McKinley, recognized the strategic
importance of these territories in the Pacific and the Caribbean. Acquiring them through
negotiation rather than through military occupation was seen as a way to legitimize U.S.
expansion in the eyes of the international community. This approach aligned with the
emerging concept of "benevolent assimilation," suggesting that the United States would
bring stability and progress to these regions.

In conclusion, the USA’s decision to “buy” the Philippines, Cuba, and Puerto Rico from Spain
was driven by its desire to expand its influence and territory, establish itself as a global
power, gain access to new markets and resources, spread its democratic ideals and values,
and prevent other European powers from acquiring these territories. The acquisition of
these territories marked the beginning of the USA’s emergence as a global superpower.
Lesson 15: The Spanish-American War and the Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898, marked the end of the Spanish-
American War and had significant effects on Spain, the United States of America, and the
Philippines. The Treaty of Paris had profound and multifaceted effects on Spain, the United
States, and the Philippines. It marked a turning point in the geopolitical landscape, setting
the stage for new relationships, conflicts, and transformations in the years that followed.

Spain was forced to cede ownership of Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines to the United
States. The treaty marked the end of Spain’s colonial empire and its status as a world
power. The loss of colonies fueled domestic unrest in Spain. The defeat in the war and the
subsequent loss of territories led to political and social upheaval, contributing to the
challenges faced by the Spanish government.

The United States of America gained possession of Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.
The acquisition of these territories marked the beginning of the USA’s emergence as a
global superpower. The acquisition of the Philippines and Guam provided the United States
with strategic naval bases in the Pacific, enhancing its influence in the region and
facilitating trade routes to Asia.

The Philippines became a colony of the United States. The treaty resulted in the Philippines
being sold to the United States for $20 million. The acquisition of the Philippines marked
the beginning of the USA’s colonial rule over the country. The treaty also led to the
Philippine-American War, which lasted from 1899 to 1902. The war resulted in the deaths
of thousands of Filipinos and Americans.

Lessons 16 and 18: American Occupation

The intentions of the United States in occupying the Philippines were multifaceted. While
strategic and economic interests were prominent factors, there were also attempts to
justify the occupation through ideological lenses of upliftment and modernization. The
Philippine-American War and subsequent colonial administration, however, revealed the
complexities and challenges of implementing these intentions on the ground. The historical
evidence suggests a combination of strategic, economic, and ideological motivations that
shaped the U.S. occupation of the Philippines during this period.

Strategic Considerations: The Philippines, located in the Pacific, was viewed by the
United States as strategically important for its geopolitical position. The acquisition of the
Philippines provided the U.S. with a gateway to Asia and control over key sea routes.

Economic Interests: The Philippines was seen as an economic asset, with its vast natural
resources and potential for trade. The United States sought to establish economic
dominance in the region, tapping into the Philippines' agricultural and mineral wealth.

Global Power Dynamics: The late 19th century saw the emergence of the United States as
a growing global power. Acquiring colonies was seen as a way to assert influence and
prestige on the world stage, aligning with the imperialistic ambitions of other major
powers.

Desire for Naval Bases: The Philippines offered valuable naval bases that could enhance
American military capabilities in the Pacific. The U.S. aimed to secure these bases to protect
its interests and project power in the region.