Volume 29 of “The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898," a monumental historical series edited by Emma Helen Blair, offers an extensive exploration of the Philippines' past. 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. Spanning centuries, from the early encounters with European explorers to the end of the 19th century, the series unveils the complex tapestry of the archipelago's history. Through meticulous research and expert curation, the series sheds light on various aspects of the Philippines' evolution, including colonialism, trade, cultural interactions, political dynamics, and the diverse communities that inhabited the islands. Each volume presents a unique window into specific timeframes and thematic elements, enriching our understanding of the nation's multifaceted heritage. Emma Helen Blair's dedication to this project underscores the significance of preserving and sharing historical narratives. The series serves as a vital resource, enabling historians, scholars, and enthusiasts to explore the challenges, achievements, and transformations that shaped the Philippines, making it an invaluable contribution to historical literature.
Ed. Emma Helen Blair and James Alexander Robertson
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 The comprehensive series showcased her expertise in meticulously examining and also presenting historical documents and narratives.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.
