2. Introduction
The Philippines declared independence from Spain on June 12, 1898.
The "Proclamation of the Philippine Independence" is a key document
in Philippine history.
It provides insights into the reasons for the revolution, the
aspirations of the revolutionaries, and the early days of the new
republic.
The Philippine Revolution was a long and bloody struggle
against Spanish colonial rule. The "Proclamation of the
Philippine Independence" marked a turning point in this
struggle and declared the birth of a new nation.
3. The proclamation cites numerous abuses by the Spanish colonial
government, including:
Arbitrary arrests and harsh treatment by the Civil Guard
Unjust deportations
Unequal protection of the law
Avarice and greed of the clergy
Justifications for the Revolution
The revolutionaries believed that Spanish rule was
oppressive and unjust. They cited specific examples of
abuses to justify their rebellion.
4. The proclamation provides a brief history of Spanish
rule in the Philippines, from Magellan's arrival to
the Philippine Revolution.
It highlights the spread of the revolution after the
collapse of the Pact of Biak-na-Bato.
It mentions the execution of Jose Rizal and the
Cavite Mutiny as important turning points.
Historical Overview
5. The proclamation declares the establishment of a
republic under the leadership of Emilio Aguinaldo.
It describes Aguinaldo as the "instrument selected by
God" to liberate the Philippines.
It mentions the adoption of a new national
flag, which incorporates symbols of the
Katipunan, the three main island groups, and the
United States.
Establishment of the Republic
6. The proclamation reveals some often-overlooked
historical truths, such as:
The white triangle on the flag represents the
Katipunan.
The red and blue colors of the flag are derived
from the US flag.
The document reflects the biases of the Aguinaldo
government.
Analysis of the Proclamation
7. The "Proclamation of the Philippine Independence"
is a valuable historical document.
It provides insights into the motivations of the
revolutionaries, the early days of the republic, and
the complex relationship between the Philippines
and the United States.
Studying primary sources like this proclamation is
essential for understanding Philippine history.
Conclusion