Introduction to History

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Questions and Answers

What does the Greek word 'historia' mean?

Learning or knowing from inquiry (correct)

Chronological account

Objective knowledge

Recording of events

Who is considered the 'father of history'?

Plato

Herodotus (correct)

Aristotle

Thucydides

What is considered a challenge faced by historians regarding the past?

Availability of artifacts

Inability to fully recreate the past (correct)

Personal biases in writing

Access to modern technology

How do artifacts and written documents function in historical studies?

They are raw materials for writing history Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of a historian when reconstructing history?

To re-create a verisimilar image of the past Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'subjective' imply in the context of historical writing?

Rooted in personal interpretation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following defines the modern understanding of 'history'?

The past of mankind, often unattainable Signup and view all the answers

What was the Latin term 'scientia' primarily used to signify?

Non-chronological systematic accounts Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a detail to be considered credible historical evidence?

Passes all four tests of credibility Signup and view all the answers

What factor does NOT influence a witness's competence?

Personal beliefs Signup and view all the answers

Why is hearsay evidence generally discarded by historians?

It is not based on accurate reporting of primary testimony Signup and view all the answers

What is the general rule for accepting historical particulars as fact?

Independent testimony from two or more reliable witnesses Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following works is considered a historical fact?

Antonio Pigafetta’s 'First Voyage Around the World' Signup and view all the answers

What describes the reliability of Antonio Pigafetta as a source?

He was present during the events he described Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the historical method?

To critically examine and analyze records of the past Signup and view all the answers

Which ship was the last to complete the circumnavigation journey?

Victoria Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a primary source?

An interview with an eyewitness Signup and view all the answers

What ocean did Magellan name due to its calmness?

Mara Pacifico Signup and view all the answers

What was the name of the fleet that was sent to reach the Spice Islands?

Armada de Maluco Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes historiography from historical method?

Historiography involves imaginative reconstruction of the past Signup and view all the answers

Why are primary sources essential for historians?

They contain firsthand accounts and particulars Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the International Date Line?

It is the boundary between two calendar days Signup and view all the answers

What is a common reason for the forgery of historical documents?

To bolster a false claim or title Signup and view all the answers

Who took over the expedition after Magellan was killed?

Sebastian del Cano Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does NOT define a secondary source?

It contains firsthand testimony of an eyewitness Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT considered when assessing the credibility of a secondary witness?

The primary witness's age and education Signup and view all the answers

Which island group did Magellan first encounter and name?

Lazari Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'document' imply in the context of historical analysis?

It encompasses both written and oral sources Signup and view all the answers

How can a historian verify the authenticity of a document?

By considering the context of creation and the author Signup and view all the answers

Which chronicled work is an example of secondary evidence?

Customs of the Tagalogs Signup and view all the answers

Which type of source provides firsthand accounts of an event?

Personal diaries and letters Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes 'internal criticism' in historical research?

Examining the reliability of the document's content Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'original' imply when discussing sources in history?

It indicates the earliest form of a document or idea Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about secondary sources is correct?

They analyze and interpret primary source information. Signup and view all the answers

Why must historians be cautious about forged documents?

They can mislead historical narratives and conclusions Signup and view all the answers

What garments comprised traditional female attire?

Baro or camisa and saya or patadyong Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was typically given as part of a dowry?

A piece of land or gold Signup and view all the answers

What key aspect distinguishes external criticisms from internal criticisms in historical analysis?

External criticism deals with the materials' anachronism. Signup and view all the answers

What role did the 'Sonat' play in pre-colonial Filipino society?

Preacher Signup and view all the answers

Which figure is associated with the god of agriculture in pre-colonial Filipino beliefs?

Idayanale Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of an anachronism?

It indicates something that belongs to a different historical period. Signup and view all the answers

What did the term 'kalumbiga' refer to?

An ornament worn by both genders Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the restoration of texts during historical analysis?

Collecting copies of the dubious text. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the practice of marriage among pre-colonial Filipinos?

Men were generally monogamous. Signup and view all the answers

What form of criticism encompasses evaluating the witness's credibility in historical inquiry?

Internal criticism. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'magtatangal' signify in pre-colonial folklore?

A Leader in the night Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common method used to analyze a document for authenticity?

Analysis of social and political contexts. Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of a 'panghihimuyat'?

To appease the bride's relatives Signup and view all the answers

What type of document is characterized as containing deliberate efforts to deceive?

Forged documents. Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is NOT mentioned in Emilio Jacinto's 'Kartilya ng Katipunan'?

Power of wealth Signup and view all the answers

What essential part must historians establish to support their claims about a document's authenticity?

Identify the author's intended message. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of courtship, what does 'paninilbihan' refer to?

Service rendered by suitor to win the bride's family Signup and view all the answers

Which test should a historian consider critical when evaluating a primary witness's credibility?

Was the witness present during the event? Signup and view all the answers

How do historians generally determine if phrases in various document copies are original or additions?

By assessing the style and handwriting differences. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT listed as a reason for divorce in pre-colonial society?

Financial instability Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following gods is associated with war?

Mandarangan Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes a 'historical fact' in the context of historiography?

A conclusion derived from credible sources. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by a 'garbled document' in historical analysis?

A document that contains errors due to reproduction mishaps. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement expresses the essence of the principle of 'equality' in Jacinto's teachings?

People are equal despite their skin color. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of document analysis involves historical context and credibility assessment?

Internal criticism. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'morotal' refer to in burial customs?

Burial ritual for women Signup and view all the answers

What can make the analysis of a document particularly challenging for historians?

Unintentional errors within copies. Signup and view all the answers

What was the name of the native product received by the Spanish voyagers upon their arrival in Samar?

Fish Signup and view all the answers

What significant event took place on March 31, 1521?

First Mass in the Philippines Signup and view all the answers

What was Magellan's fate during the campaign in the Philippines?

He died in the Battle of Mactan. Signup and view all the answers

What was the social status of the 'Datu' in the early Filipino village structure?

Chieftain Signup and view all the answers

What type of housing was commonly built to suit the tropical climate?

Bahay kubo Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary role of Juan de Plasencia in the context provided?

To document the customs of the Tagalogs Signup and view all the answers

Which religious image did the Spaniards bring to the Philippines that is celebrated in Cebu today?

Child Jesus Signup and view all the answers

What did dowries depend on in the context of marriage among the Tagalogs?

The bride's social status Signup and view all the answers

How could a slave be emancipated in early Filipino society?

By paying their debt Signup and view all the answers

What was Ninoy Aquino's primary ordeal under the dictatorship?

He was detained and mistreated for standing up for democracy. Signup and view all the answers

Which social class is considered the freemen who do not pay taxes?

Maharlica Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary message regarding women's role in society?

Women must be regarded as partners and equals. Signup and view all the answers

What significant event does Aquino highlight regarding Ninoy's imprisonment?

He was held in solitary confinement without trial. Signup and view all the answers

What type of garment did male attire include in early Filipino society?

Kanggan and bahag Signup and view all the answers

What was the reaction of the king of Zubu towards Magellan and his voyagers?

Threatening war Signup and view all the answers

What was the financial situation of the Philippines mentioned by Aquino?

There was a significant foreign debt amounting to $26 billion. Signup and view all the answers

What did Aquino emphasize about character in her speech?

Character should reflect one's actions and morals. Signup and view all the answers

What approach does Aquino plan to take towards the communist insurgency?

Engaging in dialogue and addressing root causes. Signup and view all the answers

What indicated the rank of an individual in the Tagalog society through their attire?

The color of the kanggan Signup and view all the answers

What was Ninoy Aquino’s 'restless dream' according to President Aquino?

To secure Philippine freedom. Signup and view all the answers

Which chief refused to obey the king of Spain during the Battle of Mactan?

Lapu Lapu Signup and view all the answers

Who does Aquino mention as a significant influence in her pursuit of freedom for the Philippines?

Her husband, Ninoy Aquino. Signup and view all the answers

What appeal did Aquino make regarding American support?

To strengthen ties and provide financial assistance. Signup and view all the answers

What key action does Aquino propose for the restoration of democracy?

Establish a new constitution. Signup and view all the answers

How did Aquino describe the sacrifices made by the Filipino people?

Critical in reclaiming their freedom from dictatorship. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT one of the issues Aquino discussed regarding the Philippines?

Environmental degradation. Signup and view all the answers

What did the dictatorship accuse Ninoy of being?

A nobody. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT mentioned as a measure taken by the dictatorship against Ninoy?

Awarding him a state position. Signup and view all the answers

What did Aquino imply about the sacrifices made for freedom?

They are a key part of achieving national dignity. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the outcomes of Ninoy Aquino's assassination?

Ignition of the people’s revolution. Signup and view all the answers

What does Aquino say will not have been in vain once freedom is achieved?

Lost lives and sacrifices. Signup and view all the answers

What reaction did Aquino invoke from the audience during her speech about her husband?

Appeal for unity and support. Signup and view all the answers

Which group increased significantly under the previous regime, leading to Aquino's concern?

Communist insurgents. Signup and view all the answers

What societal values does Aquino encourage through her address?

Empathy and cooperation. Signup and view all the answers

What does Aquino believe is crucial for rebuilding the nation's institutions?

Establishing a free press. Signup and view all the answers

How does Aquino describe the period after Ninoy's assassination?

A time of national shame to be overcome. Signup and view all the answers

What pivotal condition does Aquino assert must be addressed to tackle the insurgency?

Root causes such as poverty and injustice. Signup and view all the answers

What lesson does Aquino express about the response to the insurgency?

Peaceful dialogue is essential. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'fortiori' imply regarding the experience of generations long dead?

Their experiences are often unknown and unrecorded. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

History Defined

History is the study and writing of the past of mankind, traditionally traced back to the Greek tradition.
The term "history" originates from the Greek noun "historia," meaning "learning" or "knowing from inquiry."
Herodotus is regarded as the father of history.
For Aristotle, history meant a systematic account of natural phenomena.
Latin word "scientia" (science) later became the preferred term for non-chronological accounts of natural phenomena.

Subjectivity and Objectivity in History

Most of the past is beyond recall, even for those with excellent memories.
The reconstruction of the complete past for historians is unattainable.
Facts of history are often derived from testimony, making them subjective, existing only the historian's mind.
"Subjective" knowledge is sometimes seen as inferior to "objective" knowledge due to its potential for bias and illusion.

Artifacts as Historical Sources

Artifacts and written documents serve as raw materials for historical writing, representing the results or records of past events.
Historians strive to be both descriptive (telling what, when, where, and who) and interpretative (explaining why and how events happened).
History is a subjective process of re-creating a verisimilar image of the past, based on the available evidence.

Historical Method and Historiography

Historical method involves critically examining and analyzing historical records.
Historiography, the writing of history, is the imaginative reconstruction of the past from the data obtained through historical method.

Distinction of Primary and Secondary Sources

Primary sources are eyewitness accounts, testimonies, or recordings made at the time of an event.
Secondary sources are accounts written by someone who was not present at the event, often based on and interpreting primary sources.

Primary Sources

Examples include diaries, journals, speeches, interviews, letters, memos, manuscripts, memoirs, autobiographies, government records, organizational records.
Documents, photographs, audio recordings, movies, videos, public opinion polls, field notes, scientific experiments, and artifacts also qualify as primary sources.

Secondary Sources

Examples include published materials written about a particular event after it occurred, encyclopedias, chronicles, fact books, biographies, monographs, dissertations, and general histories.
Most journal articles and published books fall into the category of secondary sources.

"Original" Sources

The term "original" in historical discourse can have multiple meanings, including: containing fresh ideas, not being a translation, being in its earliest unpolished stage, being the approved unmodified text, and being the earliest available source.
For historians, the primary concern is whether a source is based on firsthand or secondhand testimony.

The Document

The term "document" can refer to both written sources and other forms of evidence like oral testimony, artifacts, pictorial survivals, and archaeological remains.
"Documentation" encompasses any kind of source material, regardless of its form or origin.

Forged or Misleading Documents

Forged documents, fabricated in whole or in part, are common and require careful scrutiny by historians.
Forgeries can be motivated by false claims, political propaganda, or attempts to mislead contemporaries.
While forgeries can reveal important political, cultural, and biographical information, they are not reliable sources for the events and persons they claim to represent.

Analyzing Documents

External criticism focuses on the authenticity of a document, examining its materials, style, and contextual elements to identify potential anachronisms, forgeries, or misinterpretations.
Internal criticism assesses a document's credibility, evaluating the witness' competence, willingness to tell the truth, and the accuracy of the reported information.

Tests of Authenticity

Historians analyze the materials of a document, looking for anachronistic elements that indicate it might not be from the claimed period.
Style, spelling, proper names, signatures, and grammar can also help identify forgeries.
Anachronistic references to time, place, or events can also reveal fraudulent documentation.

Garbled Documents

Documents that contain inaccuracies or modifications can be challenging to evaluate.
These errors often stem from unintentional mistakes made during copying, but sometimes they result from intentional alterations.

Restoration of Texts

Historians use textual criticism techniques to restore original texts by collecting multiple copies, comparing them, identifying omissions, and attributing passages back to the original author.

Identifying Author and Date

Determining the approximate date and intended author of a document is crucial for external criticism, enabling the use of tests based on anachronisms, handwriting, style, and alibi to determine authenticity.

Internal Criticism: Credibility

The problem of credibility in history focuses on the trustworthiness of a witness's testimony, not just what happened but how accurately they described the event.
A historical fact is a particular derived from credible sources and tested through the canons of historical method.
Simple and fully attested facts are rarely disputed, but even seemingly concrete statements can be questioned due to lack of first hand observation.

Interrogative Hypothesis

Historians approach documents with a question or set of questions in mind, guiding their analysis.
These questions can range from noncommittal to more specific and focused hypotheses.

General Rules of Credibility

A detail in a document is considered credible if it passes four tests:
- Was the witness able to tell the truth (competence)?
- Was the witness willing to tell the truth (willingness)?
- Was the detail accurately reported (accuracy)?
- Is there independent corroboration of the detail (corroboration)

Background of Witnesses

Even witnesses present at the same event may not be equally competent due to factors like expertise, mental and physical state, age, education, memory, and narrative skills.

Hearsay and Secondary Evidence

When using secondary sources, historians ask:
- What primary testimony is the secondary witness relying on?
- Was the primary testimony accurately reported?
- If not, what details were accurately reported?
Hearsay evidence is discarded if it cannot be verified as accurate reporting of primary testimony.

Corroboration

Independently derived testimony from two or more reliable witnesses is required for a particular to be considered historical fact.
The independence of witnesses is crucial: agreement between witnesses can confirm a lie or mistake if they are not independent.

Non-Historical "Facts"

The following are considered NOT historical facts:
- Dr. José Rizal as the author of the poem "Sa Aking Mga Kabata"
- The Code of Kalantiaw
- The Story of the Ten Bornean Datus
- Fr. José Burgos as the author of the novel "La Loba Negra"

Historical Facts

The following are considered historical facts:
- Antonio Pigafetta's "First Voyage Around the World" (Chronicle)
- Juan de Plasencia's "Customs of the Tagalogs" (Friar Account)
- Emilio Jacinto's "Kartilya ng Katipunan" (Declaration of Principles)
- Corazon Aquino's Speech Before the U.S. Congress (Speech)

Antonio Pigafetta and the "First Voyage Around the World"

Antonio Pigafetta was a Venetian scholar who participated in Ferdinand Magellan's expedition around the world.
He was a conscientious chronicler, keeping a daily journal of the voyage.
Pigafetta's account is important for its description of the voyage and its early Western perspective on the people and languages of the Philippines.
He is a credible source because he was present at the events he describes.

Magellan's Circumnavigation

In the 16th century, spices from the East were highly valuable in Europe.
Portugal controlled the spice trade routes, prompting Spain to seek its own route.
Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer, proposed to Spain that he could sail around the New World to reach the Spice Islands.
Magellan's expedition consisted of 270 crew members and five ships: Trinidad, Concepcion, San Antonio, Victoria, and Santiago.
The ships were collectively called the "Armada de Molucca," named after the Spice Islands.

Order of Ship Losses

The smallest ship, Santiago, was the first to be lost.
The largest ship, San Antonio, was the second to be lost.
Concepcion was the third ship to be lost.
Trinidad was the fourth ship to be lost.
Victoria was the only ship to complete the circumnavigation and return to Spain.

Key Events in Magellan's Circumnavigation

Magellan died in 1521 in the Philippines, leaving Sebastian del Cano to lead the remaining ships.
Magellan discovered the Strait of Magellan, a 350-mile strait, and the Pacific Ocean, which he named "Mara Pacifico" for its calm waters.
Magellan's expedition significantly contributed to understanding the shape of the Earth.

Philippines in Magellan's Journey

Magellan's expedition arrived in Samar, Philippines, on March 16, 1521.
The island was named "Humunu" at that time, later becoming known as "Homonhon."
The locals greeted them with gifts of fish, figs, coconuts, and palm wine.

The First Mass in the Philippines

The first mass in the Philippines was held on March 31, 1521 at Mazaua (Limasawa).
The mass was attended by local islanders, Spanish voyagers, and the two Rajas: Rajah Kulambu and Magellan.

Magellan's Journey to the Philippines

Magellan's expedition arrived at Cebu on April 7, 1521.
They fired mortars to signify peace and friendship.
Tension arose between Magellan and the King of Cebu, potentially leading to war.

The Baptism of Filipinos in Cebu

Magellan conducted mass for Raja Humabon on April 14, 1521.
Baptized 800 individuals.
The Child Jesus statue from this event is known as the Santo Niño, celebrated every January in Cebu.

The Battle of Mactan

The Battle of Mactan took place on April 27, 1521 between Magellan's forces and the native warriors of Mactan.
Datu Zula, Chief of Mactan, welcomed Magellan, but Cilapulapu refused to obey to the King of Spain.
The natives used "patibongs" (bamboo traps) to defeat Magellan's soldiers.

The Death of Magellan

In the Battle of Mactan, Magellan was shot in the leg with a poisoned arrow and died on April 28, 1521.

Post-Magellan Expedition

Survivors of the Battle of Mactan left with only two ships.
They burned the Concepcion and continued their search for spice islands.
They reached the Spice Islands (Maluku) after two years and traded for cloves.
On their return trip, the Trinidad sprung a leak and remained behind for repairs.
The Victoria and Concepcion were captured by the Portuguese.
The Victoria eventually reached Spain after battling headwinds and facing starvation.

The Filipino society was divided into four social classes:
- Datu: (Chieftain) ruled each barangay.
- Maharlika: (Nobles) were freemen who did not pay taxes.
- Aliping Namamahay: (Commoners) had their own properties.
- Aliping Saguiguilid: (Slaves) were completely dependent on the Datu.

Slavery in the Philippines

Slavery could be acquired through war captivity, debt, inheritance, purchase, or crime.
Slaves could be emancipated through forgiveness, payment of debt, condonation, bravery, or marriage.
Types of Aliping:
- Tumataban: worked only when ordered.
- Tumarampuk: worked only one day a week.
- Ayuey: worked three times a week.

Inheritance Laws and Customs

Men gave dowries to the women's parents before marriage.
If the woman was an orphan or had no relatives, the dowry went directly to her.
The dowry amount depended on the woman's social status.
The first son of the barangay chieftain usually inherited his father's position.
If the first son died, the second son would inherit.
If there were no sons, the eldest daughter would become the chieftain.

Pre-Colonial Filipino Religious Beliefs

Filipinos practiced a polytheistic religion during pre-colonial times, worshipping numerous deities:
- Bathala: (Supreme being).
- Idayanale: (God of Agriculture).
- Sidarapa: (God of Death).
- Agni: (God of Fire).
- Balangaw: (God of the Rainbow).
- Mandarangan: (God of War).
- Lalahon: (God of Harvest).
- Siginarugan: (God of Hell).

Pre-Colonial Filipino Priests and Religious Practitioners

Filipinos had various religious practitioners:
- Catolonan (Babaylan): respected religious leaders of both genders who were often healers.
- Mangagauay: witches who could cause illnesses and death.
- Manyisalat: witches who could cause infidelity, impotence, and sickness.
- Mancocolam: witches who could commit arson, wallow in filth, and cause death.
- Hocloban: highly effective witches who could kill others.
- Silagan: vampires from Catanduanes who tore human flesh.
- Magtatangal: creatures who appeared at night to people.
- Osuang, Tiktik, Wakwak, Aswang: sorcerers who could fly.
- Mangangayoma: healers who made love charms.
- Sonat: preachers who helped people die and predicted their fate.
- Pangatahojan, Manghuhula: soothsayers who predicted the future.
- Bayoguin: transvestites.

The Katipunan

The Katipunan was a revolutionary organization that fought for Philippine independence from Spain.
It upheld fourteen principles:
- Living a purpose-driven life.
- Doing the right thing.
- True act of kindness.
- Equality.
- Honoring one's word, over self interest.
- Being a man of word.
- Utilizing time wisely.
- Fighting for what is right.
- The importance of trust.
- The importance of family.
- Respecting women.
- The Golden Rule
- Having the right character.
- Having hope for the motherland.

Corazon Aquino's Speech at the U.S. Congress

This speech describes the restoration of democracy in the Philippines under President Corazon Aquino.
She discusses the legacy of her husband, Ninoy Aquino, who fought for freedom and inspired the revolution.
She emphasizes the challenges facing the Philippines, including a communist insurgency and the need for economic recovery.
The speech underscores the importance of democracy and calls for US support.
Aquino details her steps for restoring democracy, including:
- Establishing a new constitution.
- Conducting congressional elections.
- Establishing an independent Constitutional Commission.

The Communist Insurgency

The communist insurgency in the Philippines significantly increased under the Marcos regime.
The growth was attributed to the previous government's oppressive tactics and disregard for human rights.
Aquino argued that using force to suppress the insurgency only further fueled its growth.
Aquino emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of the insurgency, such as poverty.
She proposed a combination of political reforms and economic initiatives to pacify insurgents.

Ninoy Aquino's Sacrifice

Aquino highlights her husband's role in the fight for freedom.
She details his imprisonment and ordeal under the Marcos dictatorship.
Ninoy's assassination, a symbol of national courage, fueled the revolution and led to the overthrow of Marcos.

President Aquino's Requests from the U.S.

Aquino addresses the Philippines' significant foreign debt.
She highlights the debt's burden on the nation and requests assistance to manage it.
Aquino emphasizes her desire to strengthen US-Philippines relations.
She seeks US support for the Philippines, particularly financial assistance in managing the debt.

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Test your knowledge on fundamental concepts of history with this quiz. Explore the meanings behind key terms, challenges faced by historians, and the role of artifacts in historical studies. Perfect for anyone interested in understanding the basics of historical analysis.