Remodelling to Prepare for Independence: The Philippine Commonwealth, Decolonisation, Cities and Public Works, c. 1935–46

The book "Remodelling to Prepare for Independence: The Philippine Commonwealth, Decolonisation, Cities and Public Works, c. 1935–46" explores the Filipino side of decolonisation and the management of the built environment in the years immediately prior to self-rule. It offers an original vantage point to comprehend transition within an Asian society in the years immediately prior to, during, and after World War Two, and opens a new window to rethink Filipino ethno-history and societal evolution.

Format: Hardback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Remodelling to Prepare for Independence: The Philippine Commonwealth, Decolonisation, Cities and Public Works, c. 1935–46 delves into the profound implications of the United States' final phase of colonial rule in the Philippine Islands. It explores the Filipino perspective on decolonisation and the management of the built environment in the years leading up to self-rule. This book breaks away from the traditional collaboration vs. resistance paradigm in empire histories, offering an innovative vantage point to understand transition within an Asian society in the years preceding, during, and after World War Two. This exploration not only deepens our understanding of the American Empire but also provides a unique opportunity to connect Philippine political-cultural change to the global history of urban planning advancements. Consequently, it opens a new window to reimagine Filipino ethno-history and societal evolution, while also allowing for comparisons with other nations that undertook planning projects as part of their decolonisation processes and early-postcolonial advancements.

The book employs theoretical frameworks to assist in creatively excavating the era 1935–46, with the aim of not only revealing what public works occurred but also uncovering the meanings those projects held for the Commonwealth Government, the BPWs staff, and the public who benefited from public works projects.

This book will be of significant interest to students and researchers in Urban History, Asian and American (Empire) History, and Imperial and Colonial Studies. Architects, planners, and members of the public who have a passion for the form and meaning of urban environments designed/constructed in the past will also find this publication to be highly valuable.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032483344