ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

History of the Philippines (Before 1521)

Before 1521, the Philippines was made up of many different tribes and groups of people who lived on different islands. They had their own cultures, languages, and ways of living. They lived off the land, fishing, hunting, and farming. They made their own homes, tools, and weapons out of materials they found in their environment like bamboo, wood, and stone.

One of the most well-known groups of people were the Austronesians, who were skilled sailors and travelled across the seas to trade with other areas in Asia. They were also known for their expert boat-building skills and it is believed they were responsible for the famous Balangay boats that were used for trade and transportation.

There were also indigenous people like the Igorots, Lumads, and other ethnic groups who lived in the mountains and maintained their own distinct cultures and societies. They had a strong reverence for nature and were skilled in weaving, wood carving, and metalworks.

There were many different kingdoms and chiefdoms in the Philippines, like the Kingdom of Tondo and the Sultanate of Sulu. They had their own rulers, laws, and customs. Some kingdoms had alliances with each other and others were in conflict. They traded with other countries like China, India, and neighboring Southeast Asian nations.

The Philippines before 1521 was a diverse and dynamic place with a rich history and culture. Despite the many different groups, they all shared a connection to their land and a deep respect for nature.