Philippine Autonomy During the American Period

Changes during the American Period: Philippine Autonomy

The American period in Philippine history, which spanned over three decades, marked a significant turning point in the political and economic development of the country. During this time, the Philippines progressed from being a Spanish colony to a semi-autonomous state under the United States, and eventually achieved independence in 1946. This article explores the changes during the American period with a focus on the subtopic of Philippine autonomy.

Pre-Independence History of the Philippines

The Philippines was a Spanish colony from 1565 until the end of the Spanish-American War in 1898, which was followed by the Philippine Revolution and the establishment of the Malolos Republic. However, the Philippines remained under American rule until 1946, as per the Treaty of Paris. The American period was marked by a series of struggles for independence, including the Philippine Revolution, the Huk Rebellion, and the Sakdalista movement.

Autonomy Acts and the Promise of Independence

The Jones Law (1916)

The Jones Law, also known as the Philippine Autonomy Act of 1916, was a significant step towards independence. It promised independence to the Philippines once Filipinos could prove they could govern themselves. The Jones Law also established the Philippine Commonwealth government, which was an untried experiment. The Commonwealth was governed by a constitution modeled on the American system, with a president and a legislative body. However, the United States retained control over foreign affairs and currency matters. The Jones Law was passed in the context of World War I, and it provided a roadmap for the Philippines to achieve independence.

The Tydings-McDuffie Law (1934)

The Tydings-McDuffie Law, also known as the Philippine Independence Act of 1934, set a 12-year timetable for granting independence to the Philippines. The law was passed in response to growing Filipino nationalism and the need to address issues of autonomy and self-governance. The Tydings-McDuffie Law was a significant step towards independence, as it marked the beginning of the countdown to Philippine sovereignty.

The Independence Act (1946)

The Independence Act, signed on July 4, 1946, officially granted the Philippines its independence from the United States. The act marked the end of the American period and the beginning of the post-independence era. The Philippines was recognized as an independent, sovereign country, and the United States withdrew its authority over the archipelago as colonizer.

Impact of American Period on Philippine Autonomy

The American period had a profound impact on the development of Philippine autonomy. During this time, the Philippines experienced significant changes in their political, economic, and social structures. Key developments during this period include:

• Economic Dependence: The Philippines became economically dependent on the United States, with many industries and resources geared towards serving the American market. This dependency continued even after independence, as the Philippines remained a major source of raw materials and labor for the United States.
• Military Development: The United States helped the Philippines develop a military force, which was essential for maintaining internal order and defending against external threats.
• Political Evolution: The American period saw the evolution of a political system modeled on the American system, with a president, legislature, and judiciary. This system was intended to prepare the Philippines for eventual independence.
• Cultural Influence: American culture had a significant impact on the Philippines, with English becoming a widely spoken language and American values and traditions shaping aspects of Filipino society.

In conclusion, the American period marked a pivotal moment in Philippine history, with significant changes taking place in the areas of autonomy, political development, economic dependence, and cultural influence. The promise of independence was eventually fulfilled, and the Philippines emerged as an independent nation on July 4, 1946.