Subject
Igorot (Philippine people) Books
Best books
Albert Ernest Jenks
The Bontoc Igorot
"The Bontoc Igorot" by Albert Ernest Jenks is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century, specifically in the context of American colonialism in the Philippines. This ethnological study focuses on the Bontoc Igorot people, a group from northern Luzon, and examines their culture, social organization, and physical characteristics. The work provides detailed insights into their way of life, agricultural practices, religious beliefs, and social structures. The opening of the book sets the stage for Jenks’ ethnographic exploration, beginning with a letter of transmittal to the Department of the Interior and a preface that outlines his expedition and residence among the Igorot during 1903. Jenks describes the Indigenous community as industrious and clean-limbed, with traits typical of primitive mountain agriculturists. He highlights the Igorot's adherence to animism and a unique social structure devoid of slavery, mentioning their notable practice of head-hunting as a form of recreation. The introduction provides a geographical backdrop for the Igorot population, framing their cultural context within the broader Philippine Archipelago. Overall, the opening establishes both a personal connection and a scholarly intent to document a way of life that exists at the intersection of tradition and the encroachment of modernity.
C. R. (Claude Russell) Moss
Kankanay Ceremonies (American Archaeology and Ethnology)
"Kankanay Ceremonies" by C. R. Moss is a comprehensive ethnographic study written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the rich cultural practices of the Kankanay people, an indigenous group in the Philippines, detailing their ceremonies, beliefs, and customs. The focus is primarily on their ceremonial system and various particular ceremonies that play a vital role in their social and spiritual lives. The opening of the book provides an introduction to the Kankanay territory, highlighting their similarities and distinctions from neighboring groups like the Nabaloi. It describes the Kankanay's personal traits, industrial life, and customary laws. Moreover, it sets the groundwork for the exploration of their ceremonial system by indicating a comparative analysis with the Nabaloi, hinting at the intricacies of their religious beliefs including spirits, deities, and the various rituals associated with sickness and social events. Overall, the beginning establishes a foundation for understanding the Kankanay culture through their ceremonial practices and societal structures.
Cornélis De Witt Willcox
The Head Hunters of Northern Luzon
"The Head Hunters of Northern Luzon" by Cornélis De Witt Willcox is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book details the author's journey through the mountainous regions of Northern Luzon, specifically focusing on the indigenous highland tribes, including the Igorottes and Ilongots. Through his observations and experiences, Willcox aims to shed light on the lives and cultures of the Highlanders, emphasizing their traditions, social structures, and the challenges faced under colonial governance. At the start of the book, Willcox introduces the context of his journey, which follows a formal inspection tour arranged by the Secretary of the Interior of the Philippine Islands. He reflects on the largely untamed and remarkable wilderness of Northern Luzon, where he hopes to observe the mountain tribes that exhibit a mix of harsh survival and cultural richness. The opening chapters depict the vivid scenery, the hospitality of the local tribes, and Willcox's interactions with the Igorottes and Ilongots, laying the groundwork for a deeper exploration into their unique customs, social dynamics, and the author's efforts to develop a rapport with these often misunderstood communities.
Recently surfaced classics