Treaty of Manilla
The treaty of Manila was a diplomatic treaty between the Empire of Japan and the Kingdom of Spain. In the treaty, Spain ceded the archipelago of the Philippines in exchange for 40 million pound sterling. Spain sold the islands after the economic ramifications of the Philippine Revolution of 1896-1897 and the tumultuous ruling of the Viceroyalty of the Philippines.
Document Structure
Caveats
Spain was upfront in regards to the independence movement of the Filipino people. Japan was unmoved, and eventually created a caste system turning the native Filipinos into second-class citizens. However, true to their word, Japan did grant further voting rights to the Philippine men, so long as they were cordial to Japanese interests.
Legal status
When the treaty became public, the Kingdom of Holland became the most outspoken critic of it. Believing it was an encroachment on their own interests in the East Indies, Holland increased naval presence in Indonesia.
Historical Details
Background
Japan had interests in an Asiatic colonial empire, much like the great powers of Europe. Japan had twice attempted to purchase the Philippines from Spain. However, after the loss to Gran Colombia as well as years of Philippine resistance, Spain gained a financial recession, facilitating the need for the arrangement.
History
Spain had issues with their colonial holdings, particularly in the Americas. However, their Asiatic colonies became a source of tension, as rebellions against colonial rule became more frequent. Japan had expressed interest in purchasing the islands, though Spain declined the initial offers.
Public Reaction
The reaction in Japan was one of excitement. Japanese markets overwhelmed the economy in the Philippines. By the turn of the 20th century, one in five shops in the Philippines were Japanese.
Great Britain attempted to kill the treaty, as it felt the purchase of the Philippines would threaten British control over the Malay States.
Ooh, how did the natives of Indonesia and Malaysia respond to the Philippines changing hands? Were they afraid of experiencing the same thing?