You hear “Maharlika” and think, “Oh, royalty, right?”. Not exactly. It wasn’t all feasts and fancy clothes back then. Let’s dive into the real deal – the daily grind of a Maharlika in pre-colonial Philippines. More Than Just a Fancy Title: Understanding the Maharlika Class First things first, let’s break down this word “Maharlika”. In…
Pre-Colonial (900–1560)
Islamic Influence Beyond Mindanao & Manila Pre-1500s
The Islamic impact in the Philippines goes far beyond Mindanao and Manila, even before the 1500s. This part of Philippine history shows how Islamic teachings spread across the islands. It also highlights their big influence on the Philippines’ culture and beliefs. Before being colonized, Islam in the Philippines was very influential. It shaped not just…
Cats in Pre-Colonial/Colonial Philippines as Pets
The fabric of Filipino culture is rich with various influences. But, how deeply do pre-colonial Philippines cats weave into this tapestry? Historical records hint that, along with well-known animals like pigs and water buffalo, cats sneaked into Philippine life. They probably came through early trade with Greeks, Romans, and Indians after 1000 A.D.1. These seafaring…
Pre-Colonial Philippines Myths Believed as Facts
For centuries, Filipino myths have woven a rich tapestry of stories. These tales pull from different civilizations and religions, creating a unique cultural mix. The Philippines’ pre-colonial history was marked by Hindu-Buddhist customs, Islamic teachings, and animistic beliefs. This blend created a diverse religious scene across the islands12. Stories of mythical beings, like the Aswang…