This book gives an introductory overview of how the Philippines grew into a nation and how it achieved its independence. Conceived as "a story to be read, and not a calendar to be memorized," this concise narrative of Philippine history serves as a handy guide for understanding the important highlights of the nation's development.

About the Author

Jose S. Arcilla, S.J. is a member of the department of history at the Ateneo de Manila University and is at present also the archivist of the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus. He finished graduate studies in the United States and in Spain.

Father Arcilla, who has authored Aspects of Western Medieval Culture, has published in professional reviews both in the Philippines and abroad. He is the Philippine coordinator for the editorial staff of the International Jesuit Encyclopedia being published by the Institute of Jesuit History (Rome).