Philippines

Definition

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country in the Western Pacific, comprising more than 7,000 islands. It was colonized by Spain in the 16th century and later by the United States at the end of the Spanish-American War in 1898.

Related terms

Spanish-American War: A conflict between Spain and America in 1898 that ended Spanish colonial rule in the Americas and resulted in U.S. acquisition of territories including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippine islands.

Colonialism: The policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

Imperialism: A policy or ideology by which a nation extends its power by acquiring territories. It may also include the exploitation of these territories for economic gain.