Emilio Aguinaldo

Emilio Aguinaldo was the first and youngest president of the Philippines, leading the country in its fight for independence from Spanish colonization.

World Leader

March 22, 1869

February 06, 1964

94

Emilio Aguinaldo, a pivotal Filipino revolutionary leader, significantly contributed to the nation’s battle for liberation from both Spanish and American colonial rule. As the Philippines’ inaugural president, he served from 1899 to 1901 and is best known for spearheading the revolution against Spanish control and declaring the country’s independence in 1898. Aguinaldo also engaged in combat against the American Army during the Philippine-American War. Although regarded as a national hero, he has faced criticism for his involvement in the deaths of revolutionary leader Andrés Bonifacio and General Antonio Luna, as well as collaborating with the Japanese Empire during World War II. In addition to his political and military accomplishments, Aguinaldo was a musician and composer who created nationalistic songs. Notably, he holds the distinction of being both the first and youngest president of the Philippines, guiding the nation in its quest for emancipation from Spanish colonization.