"The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898— Volume 16," is an extensive historical series edited and translated by Emma Helen Blair and James Alexander Robertson. This book has been deemed a classic and has been a great collection of ideas that are comprehended into a single draft to read by readers of several age groups. The series covers the history of the Philippines during the colonial period, providing a comprehensive account of the archipelago's early encounters with European explorers, its colonization under Spanish rule, and the subsequent interactions with American forces. Throughout the volumes, the work draws from a wide array of primary sources, including historical documents, letters, and accounts, to offer a nuanced understanding of the Philippines' past. The series delves into the cultural, political, and economic dynamics that shaped the archipelago over the centuries, exploring the influence of Spanish colonial administration, religious missions, and trade on the indigenous population. This significant historical endeavor serves as a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and anyone interested in the intricate history of the Philippines. With meticulous research and scholarly analysis, the series sheds light on significant events and developments during the colonial era, providing a deeper appreciation of the nation's identity and its journey toward independence.
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 The comprehensive series showcased her expertise in meticulously examining and also presenting historical documents and narratives.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.
