Hernando de los R Coronel and the Spanish Philippines in the Golden Age

Whilst much scholarly work has been focused on Spain's American colonies much less is known about Spanish colonization of the Pacific. As such this book fills an important gap in our knowledge directing attention both to Spain's wider imperial ambitions and the specific situation within the Philippines. By structuring the book around the life of Hernando de los Ríos Coronel many overlapping and complex threads are drawn out that cast light upon a diverse range of subjects. Soldier priest diplomat explorer naval pilot and scientist de los Ríos was a fascinating figure who played a pivotal role in Spanish efforts to establish a thriving colony in the Philippines. In 1588 at the age of 29 he was sent to the Philippines as a soldier and once there quickly established himself as a pillar of society ultimately becoming a priest. Over 36 years until his death sometime before the end of January 1624 he shuttled between the Philippines and Spain in his role as Procurator General - the sole representative of the Philippines (both Spaniards and Indigenes) at the Spanish Court. As well as telling the story of an extraordinary individual this book provides a fascinating introduction to the early history of the Spanish Philippines. By touching upon a broad range of topics it also opens up numerous avenues for further research.