Historical Encyclopedia
The period of American rule in the Philippines began in the late 19th century after the end of the Spanish-American War and the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1898. According to the treaty, Spain ceded its colonies, including the Philippines, to the United States of America. This transition marked the beginning of a new phase in the history of the Philippines, characterized by both political and social changes. American colonization brought a new approach to governance, the educational system, and infrastructure to the Philippines, although it was accompanied by resistance from the local population.
When the Philippines came under U.S. control in 1898, a significant portion of the local population hoped for independence after centuries of Spanish rule. However, instead of the expected freedom, they faced a new colonial regime. The Philippine-American War began in 1899 and lasted until 1902, marked by fierce resistance. The war claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Filipinos and caused severe destruction, but ultimately the United States established full control over the archipelago.
After the military actions concluded, the United States began to organize a colonial administration. In 1901, the Civil Government Council was established, which took on the responsibility of governing the Philippines. William Taft was appointed as the first civilian governor, playing a key role in implementing reforms. The Americans sought to introduce new methods of governance, establish an education system, and improve infrastructure. They implemented English-language education in schools, which contributed to increased literacy and the integration of the country into the global economy.
One of the most significant reforms during the American period concerned the educational system. In 1901, a system of free primary education was established in the Philippines, provided in English. Schools and colleges were opened, and new subjects, such as natural sciences and mathematics, were incorporated into the curriculum. In 1908, the University of the Philippines was founded, becoming a center for higher education. American authorities aimed to integrate the Philippines into Western culture by disseminating American customs and values, which subsequently influenced the culture and lifestyle of Filipinos.
The U.S. government also actively developed the Philippine economy. During the American rule, roads, railways, ports, and power plants were constructed. These infrastructure projects facilitated the development of agriculture and industry. The main export products became sugar, tobacco, copra, and timber. However, American policies also led to the concentration of land in the hands of wealthy Filipino landowners, exacerbating social inequality and leading to tensions between farmers and plantation owners.
Over time, the United States began granting limited political autonomy to the Philippines. In 1907, the Philippine Assembly was created — the first legislative chamber that Filipinos could elect to. Although real power remained with the American governor, the Assembly represented an important step toward self-governance. Local politicians gained the ability to represent the interests of the people, leading to increased political activity and strengthening national consciousness.
In 1934, the U.S. Congress passed the Philippine Independence Act (also known as the Tydings-McDuffie Act), which provided for a transitional period of 10 years and promised full independence in 1946. During this time, Filipinos were encouraged to develop their own governmental institutions and prepare for the administration of an independent country. In 1935, a new Constitution of the Philippines was adopted, and the Commonwealth of the Philippines was formed — a semi-independent republic headed by President Manuel Quezon.
The plan for granting independence was temporarily halted with the onset of World War II and the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, which began in 1941. The Japanese invasion interrupted the development of political institutions and led to temporary Japanese control over the Philippines. During the war, Filipinos actively participated in the guerrilla movement, fighting against the Japanese invaders. After the war, American troops returned to the Philippines, liberating the country from Japanese occupation.
On July 4, 1946, as promised, the United States granted full independence to the Philippines. A new chapter in the country's history began with the signing of the Manila Treaty, which recognized the sovereignty of the Republic of the Philippines. However, despite the formal acquisition of independence, the country continued to experience U.S. influence in the economy, politics, and military affairs. A series of agreements were signed that established American military bases in the Philippines and granted the U.S. significant influence over the country's economic and foreign policy.
The period of American rule left a mixed legacy in the history of the Philippines. On one hand, it brought numerous reforms that contributed to the development of infrastructure and education. The introduction of an English-language education system and improved communications facilitated the modernization of the country. On the other hand, American policies retained elements of colonialism, and many Filipinos still experienced infringement of their rights.
Over time, the Filipino people gained significant experience in political struggle and self-determination, which became the foundation for independence. The political institutions formed during this period became the basis for the further development of a democratic state. Thus, the period of American rule can be viewed as an important stage that prepared the Philippines for self-governance and independence.