Colonial History: The great explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived at Samar Island in 1521, but was killed by the inhabitants of Suwu Island. The Spanish government soon sent troops to the Philippines, and fought several wars against the Filipinos. Spain ruled the Philippines after they conquered Manila in 1571. During the 300 years of Spanish rule, Catholicism was introduced. Unlike other Southeast Asian countries, most Filipinos are Catholics because of this historical background.
　　 There was a war between Spain and the USA in 1898. Spain was defeated, and signed the Paris Peace Treaty. In accordance with this treaty, the USA paid Spain two million dollars, and Spain ceded the Philippines, Guam and Puerto Rico to the USA. The Spanish left the Philippines after ruling there for 327 years; the Americans who replaced them brought in a new style of rule.
　　 The Americans brought in their concept of democracy, and promoted local autonomy. The Philippines thus became the first country in Southeast Asia to have a democratic system of government. The Philippines were invaded by Japan in 1942. The Japanese tried to stir up the Filipinos against the Americans. The US army came back to the Philippines in 1944, and established the Republic of the Philippines. The Philippines became independent in 1946.