The Former Philippines Thru Foreign Eyes

"The Former Philippines Thru Foreign Eyes" edited by Austin Craig is a collection of observations from foreign visitors, giving a glimpse into the Philippines during Spanish colonization. The book shares stories from people like Jagor, Comyn, Virchow, and Wilkes, painting a picture of Filipino society, trade, and culture. It starts by explaining why the book was put together, aiming to fix the unfair portrayals of Filipinos written by Spanish historians who often boosted their own successes while downplaying Filipino abilities. This setup promises a journey through different perspectives on Philippine lands, traditions, and struggles, helping readers gain a fuller and fairer understanding of Filipino background and culture.