The Philippine Exposition in Madrid 1887.
T he Philippine Exposition of Madrid-1887 was the brainchild of Victor Balaguer, Spanish Minister of Overseas Colonies (Ministerio de Ultramar), who one-time championed Filipino representation in the Spanish "Cortes'. It highlighted not only native Filipino talents in arts, native handicrafts, flora, and fauna but it also presented other Pacific Islanders who were colonies of Spain. (Chamorros, Micronesians, etc.) One feature of the exposition was the presentation of natives in giant pavilions, like big terrariums. The public could actually view or even interact with the scenes inside these enclosures as the daily lives and activities of the poor natives are being played out -- In truth, it was nothing but a human zoo. Illustration print of the "Palacio Cristal" in the Parque del Retiro, Madrid, the building where the main presentations of the Philippine Exposition were held. One of its trivial attractions was the bamboo bridge in front of the palace. Inaugurat...