In the rich tapestry of pre-colonial Philippine societies, long before the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 and the subsequent Spanish era, social structures were intricate and well-defined. These societies, typically organized into autonomous political units known as Barangay, were not monolithic, exhibiting regional variations in language, customs, and even social stratification. However, a common…
Tag: Social mobility
The Rise of the Mestizo Class: Identity and Social Mobility
Did you know that during the Spanish colonial era, over 80 terms were used to describe people of mixed ancestry? This linguistic diversity reflects the complex social hierarchies that emerged during this period. The term “mestizo,” originating from this era, has since evolved to symbolize cultural blending and mixed heritage. In the Philippines, the mestizo…