"The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 8," authored by Emma Helen Blair, is a comprehensive historical compilation that offers a vivid and detailed account of the Philippines' colonial history from 1591 to 1593. As the eighth volume in the series which that this work continues the ambitious project undertaken by Blair to chronicle the archipelago's past and its interactions with foreign powers. In this volume, Blair delves into the significant events that occurred during the early 17th century in the Philippines, particularly focusing on the years 1591 to 1593. The text provides a rich narrative of the Spanish colonial expansion in the region, the establishment of missions and churches, and the tumultuous relations with indigenous communities. Blair's meticulous research and use of primary sources, including letters and official documents, and also the historical accounts, ensure the accuracy and other one authenticity of the information presented. The volume presents a compelling narrative of exploration, cultural encounters, and also the complexities of colonization. Moreover, "The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898 — Volume 8" sheds light on the social and political, and other one economic dynamics that shaped the Philippines during this crucial period.
Emma Helen Blair (1869-1951) was an American historian and author known for her significant contributions to Philippine history and also scholarship. Born on July 19, 1869, in Ohio, she pursued her education at Ohio Wesleyan University and later at Columbia University. Blair's passion for history and research led her to collaborate with James Alexander Robertson, an esteemed scholar, in editing and compiling "The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898" series. This monumental project spanned fifty-five volumes and covered the colonial history of the Philippines from the 16th to the 19th century. The comprehensive series showcased her expertise in meticulously examining and also presenting historical documents and narratives. Her work significantly contributed to a deeper understanding of the Philippines' complex past and its interactions with various colonial powers. Her commitment to historical accuracy and attention to detail earned her a reputation as a meticulous and reliable historian. Beyond her contributions to Philippine history, and main thing that Emma Helen Blair also authored "The Philippine Policy of Secretary Taft" and co-wrote "A History of the Philippine Islands" with Robertson. Both of these works further demonstrated her dedication to scholarship and the exploration of the Philippines' political and social developments.
James Alexander Robertson was born in Corry, Pennsylvania, in 1873. He was the sixth of eight children born to Canadian parents who became naturalized citizens of the United States after moving to Corry in 1866. His father, John McGregor Robertson, was a builder from Verulam, Ontario, close to Peterborough. His mother, Elizabeth Borrowman Robertson, immigrated to Canada as a child from her native Scotland. When Robertson was seven years old, his mother died. After three years, he and his family relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where James finished his secondary education. In 1892, he enrolled in Adelbert College at Western Reserve University for graduate study. He studied in Romance languages, majoring in Old French, and received his Bachelor of Philosophy degree from Western Reserve University in 1896.
