The Principalia

The Principalia was the local elite that originated from the families of pre-colonial datus. A lot of them mixed with Spaniards hence were also known as “Mestizas.” They were known by their titles: “Don” for the men and “Doña” for the women. Boys were usually referred to as “Señoritos” while girls were called “Señoritas.” Wealth … Read more

The Cavite Mutiny and the GOMBURZA

The Cavite Mutiny and the GOMBURZA The Cavite Mutiny was an uprising of 200 Filipino troops and workers at the military arsenal in Cavite on 20 January 1872. A “mutiny” is when a group of soldiers openly resist and defy the military leadership. The reaction of the colonial government was harsh, and the mutiny was … Read more

The Guardia Civil Veterana

The Guardia Civil Veterana The Guardia Civil was the law enforcement agency of the colonial government. They are equivalent to the police of modern times. They were first formed in the Philippines in 1868, and in the 1870s, the Guardia Civil Veterana was established inManila. Jose Rizal was very critical of the Guardia Civil. In … Read more

1863 Earthquake

1863 Earthquake The last major earthquake that destroyed Manila was in 1645. For 200 years, Manila grew and thrived. Buildings grew higher and more beautiful than ever. However, progress was stopped in 1863 when a powerful earthquake hit again. The shock lasted for less than a minute but was enough to destroy the entire city. … Read more

The Clothes of the Masses

The Clothes of the Masses Aside from jewelry, expensive fabrics like piña were used by the rich to display wealth. But this does not mean the poor did not know how to dress well. Almost every poor Indio had at least one set of special attire for special occasions such as for going to church … Read more