History of Manila
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, has a long and complex history shaped by indigenous cultures,
colonial rule, wars, and modern development. It has been a major political, economic, and cultural
center for centuries.
Pre-Colonial Manila (Before 1571)
•
Manila was originally a thriving settlement of the Tagalog people, located along the Pasig
River.
•
It was ruled by Rajah Sulayman, Rajah Matanda, and Rajah Lakandula, who controlled trade
with China, India, and neighboring Southeast Asian kingdoms.
•
The name "Maynila" comes from the phrase "may nilad," referring to the nilad plant, a
flowering shrub that grew along the riverbanks.
•
The settlement was fortified with bamboo palisades and had a strong Muslim influence due to
trade with the Sultanates of Brunei and Sulu.
Spanish Colonization (1571 - 1898)
•
In 1571, Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi captured Manila and established it as
the capital of the Spanish East Indies.
•
The Spaniards built Intramuros, a walled city that became the center of government, religion,
and commerce.
•
Manila became an important hub in the Galleon Trade (1565-1815), connecting Asia and the
Americas through trade with Mexico.
•
During the 19th century, nationalist movements emerged, leading to revolts like the Philippine
Revolution (1896-1898) against Spanish rule.
•
In 1898, Spain ceded the Philippines to the United States after losing the Spanish-American
War.
American Period (1898 - 1941)
•
The Americans modernized Manila, introducing public education, sanitation systems, and
infrastructure improvements.
•
Architect Daniel Burnham designed a master plan for Manila, but it was only partially
implemented.
•
The city became a blend of Western and Filipino cultures, with neoclassical government
buildings, electric streetcars, and modern institutions.
World War II and Japanese Occupation (1941 - 1945)
•
In 1941, Japan invaded Manila, making it the capital of its occupied Philippine government.
•
The Battle of Manila (1945) was one of the most destructive battles of World War II, leaving
the city in ruins and killing over 100,000 civilians.
•
Manila was the second most devastated Allied city after Warsaw, Poland.
Post-War Reconstruction and Martial Law (1946 - 1986)
•
Manila was rebuilt and became the capital of an independent Philippines in 1946.
•
The city experienced rapid urbanization but also struggled with overcrowding and poverty.
•
In 1972, President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law, leading to political unrest and
economic challenges.
Modern Manila (1986 - Present)
•
After the People Power Revolution (1986), democracy was restored, and Manila continued to
grow as a political and economic center.
•
The city faces issues such as traffic congestion, flooding, and pollution, but remains a major
hub for finance, culture, and education.
•
It is home to historical landmarks like Intramuros, Rizal Park, Fort Santiago, and the National
Museum.
Fun Facts about Manila
•
Oldest Chinatown: Binondo, Manila, is the oldest Chinatown in the world, established in 1594.
•
University of Santo Tomas (UST): Founded in 1611, it is one of the oldest universities in Asia.
•
First City in Asia with a Tram System: Manila had an electric streetcar system as early as 1905.