SOCIAL SCIENCE BY GROUP 11 A GROUP PRESENTATION

Talks about politics

1. Evolution of Philippine politics and Governance from Pre-colonial period to the Colonial Period Lesson 1

2. Sultan Before Spanish colonization, some areas of the Philippines, especially in Mindanao and Sulu, were ruled by sultans under Islamic governance. The Sultanates of Sulu and Maguindanao had established political systems that resisted Spanish rule.

3. Reducción A Spanish policy of resettling indigenous Filipinos into centralized towns or “pueblos.” This was meant to facilitate religious conversion, tax collection, and governance, but it also disrupted indigenous communities and cultures. Encomiendas - A system where Spanish officials or soldiers were granted control over certain indigenous communities in exchange for their protection and religious conversion. However, this often led to abuse and exploitation of the local population.

4. General-Governor The highest Spanish official in the Philippines, appointed by the Spanish Crown to oversee colonial administration, enforce laws, and represent the Spanish monarch. Principalia - The local ruling class composed of native elites who were given privileges under Spanish rule. They acted as intermediaries between the Spanish government and the indigenous population, helping enforce colonial policies.

5. Ayuntamiento A Spanish-style municipal government established in major cities like Manila. It was composed of local officials, including the alcalde (mayor), regidores (council members), and other administrators. Royal Audiencia - The highest court in the colony that acted as a judicial and advisory body to the Governor-General. It helped regulate colonial affairs and resolve legal disputes.

6. Encomendero A Spanish official or soldier who was granted an encomienda. They were responsible for collecting tribute and ensuring the spiritual welfare of the native people, though many abused their power. Gobernadorcillo - The chief executive of a town (pueblo), usually a member of the principalia class. He oversaw local administration, tax collection, and law enforcement.

7. Alcaldía Provinces or administrative divisions that were under direct Spanish control, led by an “ alcalde mayor.” These were areas that had been fully pacified and integrated into the colonial system. Corregimientos - Areas that were not yet fully pacified and were under the jurisdiction of a “ corregidor ,” who acted as both military and civil authority until the region was stable enough to become an alcaldía .

8. Cabeza de barangay The leader of a barangay (village) who collected tribute from the people and maintained order. They were often chosen from the principalia and served as intermediaries between the local population and Spanish authorities. Cúmplase - A policy that allowed the Governor-General to decide whether to implement or suspend laws from Spain based on local conditions. This gave the Governor-General significant power and autonomy.

9. Recopilación de las Leyes de los Reynos de las Indias A collection of laws governing Spain’s colonies, including the Philippines. It outlined administrative, economic, and religious policies but was not always strictly enforced in the colony.