IMPORTANT EVENTS
1941 - Japanese invade and occupy the islands during WW2 ( World War II ). 1946 - Americans and Filipinos regained control of the islands; the Philippines regains independence and is renamed The Republic of the Philippines. CONFLICTS 1521 - Ferdinand Magellan claims the islands for Spain and is killed by native ruler Lapu Lapu's men 1896 - Writer José Rizal, who helped start the independence movement, is executed 1899-1901 -The Philippine-American War begins after Spain turns the Philippines over to the United States 1951 - The Philippines signs a peace treaty with Japan 1972 - President Marcos declares Martial law 1973 - A new constitution gives Marcos absolute powers 1986 - The People Power Revolution drives out Marcos and Corazon Aquino takes control WORLD WAR II On World War 2 the U.S. governed the Philippine islands until the Japanese invaded in 1941. The U.S. military was forced to Retreat from the area. Many brave Filipino and American soldiers who were left behind were captured and was forced on a long march around Luzon. Thousands of Filipinos and Americans died from sickness, torture, and lack of food and water. The march was so long and horrible that it’s been named the Bataan Death March. The Filipinos fought bravely for three years against the Japanese before they were able to take back what the Japanese stole from them. |