The Philippines islands: a historical, geographical, ethnological, social and commercial sketch of the Philippine archipelago and its political dependencies, embracing the whole period of Spanish rule

This work is an essential historical account of the Philippines under Spanish colonial rule, authored by John Foreman, a British writer and traveler who resided in the Philippines and witnessed significant events in the late 19th century. Initially published in 1890, this edition serves as a comprehensive sketch of the archipelago's history, geography, ethnology, society, and commerce leading up to the end of the Spanish era. Foreman's narrative is particularly valuable for its contemporary perspective on the social and political climate of the islands just prior to the Philippine Revolution and the subsequent Spanish-American War. The book’s detailed examination of the archipelago's "political dependencies" and the "whole period of Spanish rule" made it a key resource for individuals and governments interested in the Philippines during the transition of colonial power. Its historical relevance lies in providing a detailed, Western, pre-American-era snapshot of the country, offering insights into the complex relationship between the Spanish colonizers, the Catholic religious orders, and the indigenous populations. The work may contain observations on local culture and national events that are critical for understanding the late-19th-century history of the Philippines.

The book is considered valuable. It is advised that researchers use digital copy rather than physical books for preservation purposes. 482 pages : illustrations ; tables Date Created 1890 (Original edition date with this specific title, though later editions exist) Fil. 991.4 F76 APA Citation: Foreman, J. (1890). The Philippine Islands: A historical, geographical, ethnological, social and commercial sketch of the Philippine Archipelago and its political dependencies, embracing the whole period of Spanish rule. Samson Low, Marston, Searle & Rivington.