Questions and Answers
The decline of the Galleon Trade was primarily due to Spain's ability to compete with self-sufficient nations.
False
The forced labor system known as Polo y servicio initially required men to serve for 40 days.
True
The taxation system during Spanish rule included a tithe, which was a tax amounting to 5% of an individual’s annual income.
False
During the early Spanish colonial period, education was considered a privilege available only to the highest racial class.
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Indulto de comercio granted provincial governors the authority to trade freely without restrictions.
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The decline of the Galleon Trade was primarily caused by the opening of the Philippines to world commerce.
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The political system under Spanish rule in the Philippines was characterized by a strong emphasis on democratic governance.
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Forced labor systems in the 19th century Philippines only affected the indigenous population.
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The wealthy Filipino middle class emerged as a direct result of the economic policies enacted during the industrial revolution in the 19th century.
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Taxation policies during the Spanish colonial period were typically uniform across all social classes in the Philippines.
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Study Notes
Trade and Economic Conditions
- The Galleon Trade operated between Mexico and the Philippines, transporting flora and fauna such as guava, avocado, papaya, and horses.
- Spain achieved mercantilist superpower status through a trading monopoly, but this decline began in the early 19th century due to competition and revolts.
- Factors contributing to the decline included: competition from nations favoring direct trade, dependence on South American silver mines, and shifts in consumer focus due to the War for Independence in Mexico.
- The Galleon Trade was officially ended by decree in the first decade of the 19th century.
Forced Labor and Taxation
- Polo y servicio required men aged 16-60 to work for community projects for 40 days, reduced to 15 days in 1884.
- Indulto de comercio allowed provincial governors to monopolize trade activities.
- Various taxes were imposed on colonists for government support:
- Tithe: 10% income to the government.
- Sanctorum: tax for church support.
- Tribute (buwis): payments or goods to landlords.
Social Conditions in the 19th Century
- Education was a privilege for the highest racial classes, typically those of Spanish descent, with limited opportunities for the broader populace.
- José Rizal was born during this transformative period marked by struggles for independence and shifts towards modernity, characterized by revolutionary movements.
Economic Changes during the Industrial Revolution
- The Industrial Revolution introduced new production, transportation, and communication methods, fostering a shift from manual to machine-based labor.
- Economic growth in the Philippines included:
- Increased global commerce.
- Foreign involvement in local manufacturing and agriculture.
- Emergence of a dynamic, balanced economy.
- Formation of a wealthy Filipino middle class participating in trade.
Government Structure and Authority
- Early Philippine trade existed pre-colonization with various countries prior to the establishment of the Manila-Acapulco Trade.
- The governor oversaw local administrations, taxation, and law enforcement.
- Provinces were organized into municipalities led by a Gobernadorcillo (Mayor) and Cabeza de Barangay.
Judicial and Legislative Systems
- The Audiencia served as a court of appeals with jurisdiction over the colony, administrating justice.
- The Council of the Indies legislated laws for the colony, composed of high-ranking officials.
- The Spanish Cortes was responsible for enacting laws throughout the Spanish empire.
Role of the Friars
- For over three centuries, Catholic missionaries (friars) became influential in the Philippines, impacting political, social, economic, and cultural spheres.
- The arrival of Augustinian missionaries in 1565 marked the beginning of their significant role, later joined by other religious orders including Franciscans, Jesuits, Dominicans, and Recollects.
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Description
Explore the factors that led to the decline of the Galleon Trade in the Philippines. This quiz examines Spain's trade practices, competition from other nations, and the impact of mercantilism on global trade. Test your knowledge on this pivotal economic period in history.
