The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898; Volume 50

A vivid picture of 18th‑century Philippines emerges through a series of rare maps and illustrations. Detailed plans of Manila’s streets, the surrounding rivers, and even distant islands such as Guam allow listeners to visualize the archipelago’s geography as colonial engineers and pilots recorded it. These visual documents are paired with contemporary commentary, bringing the landscape of the era to life.

The accompanying narrative follows the turbulent years after the English briefly reclaimed Manila in 1764. It traces the arrival of Governor José Raón, the dramatic expulsion of the Jesuits, and the fierce clashes between civil officials and religious orders. Amidst these political struggles, Moro pirate raids threaten coastal communities, prompting military responses and fortification efforts that shape the colony’s early modern character.