Answer to Question #251469 in History for Poomie

Question

What were the issues reflected in the proclamation of Philippine Independence?

Answer 1

It did not win the revolution. It was in the middle of Spanish-American War wherein America is fighting over the control of the Philippines and other Spanish colonies. The US have used the ongoing revolution as an advantage to get what they want. In May 1898, Gen Emilio Aguinaldo came back from Hong Kong right after the Battle of Manila Bay in which US defeated the Spanish Fleet. Aguinaldo was carried by an American Navy boat. He re-consolidated his Revolutionary Army. Fought again in Luzon and won most of his battle against Spain. In June 12 1898, Gen Aguinaldo decided to raise the Philippines’ Flag to inspire the Filipinos to fight against Spain. The Philippines Revolutionary Army continuously fought valiantly against Spain. At the same time, the US is also fighting Spain in the Philippines soil. In August of 1898, Spain secretly surrendered to the US. They kept it away from the Philippine Revolutionary Army in order for them not to be taken down by the Filipinos. In August 13 1898, the US and Spanish fleets engaged in a mock battle in Manila Bay. This mock battle resulted in Manila being “officially taken down” by the US. The US then took control of Manila. In addition, the US did not acknowledge the participation of the Philippines during the war and its victories against Spain. The Filipinos felt that they were betrayed by the US because of this. In December 10 1898, The Spanish Empire officially surrendered to the US thru the Treaty of Paris. In January 1899, Emilio Aguinaldo organized the First Republic of the Philippines. However, this Republic was considered illegal by the US. Philippines and US went to war shortly after. In the course of 1899–1901 Aguinaldo was chased down by the US. Aguinaldo transferred his capital from places to places towards Northern Luzon. He was finally capture in Isabela thus officially dissolving the First Republic. After the war, Emilio Aguinaldo pledged his allegiance in the United States.