Bullets and Bolos: Fifteen Years in the Philippine Islands

Written by Colonel John R. White, this work serves as a primary source account of the early American colonial administration in the Philippines (1901–1916). The narrative details the formation and operations of the Philippine Constabulary, a gendarmerie-style police force established by the U.S. Philippine Commission to replace the Spanish Guardia Civil. The "Bullets" in the title represent the modern firearms of the occupying forces, while "Bolos" refers to the traditional bladed weapons used by Filipino revolutionaries and resistance groups. The book provides a first-hand perspective on the "pacification" campaigns across the archipelago, including the conflicts in Luzon and the fierce resistance encountered in Mindanao and Sulu during the Moro Rebellion (specifically the Battle of Bud Dajo). For historical institutions, this item is a critical record of the transition from Spanish to American rule, illustrating the complex dynamics between foreign officers and indigenous soldiers, as well as the cultural and military clashes that shaped the modern Philippine state.

The book is considered valuable. It is advised that researchers use digital copy rather than physical books for preservation purposes.

376 pages : illustrations ; photographs ; maps 

Date Created: 1928 (Original publication) Language Translation (Spanish to English): * Title Translation: Balas y Bolos: Quince Años en las Islas Filipinas. Core Context: This memoir documents the author’s experiences as a soldier and officer during the transitional period of Philippine history following the 1898 Treaty of Paris. 

Fil. 

919.14 

W58

Acc.# 37122 

BC# 0000133336

APA Citation: 

White, J. R. (1928). Bullets and bolos: Fifteen years in the Philippine Islands. Century Company.