12 JUNE

1898 - Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, leader of the Philippine Revolution against Spain, proclaims the Independence of the Philippines "under the protection of the Powerful and Humanitarian Nation," that is the United States of America and thereby ceasing "to have any allegiance to the Crown of Spain" and unfurling a blue, red and yellow flag partly inspired by the Stars-and Stripes banner of the US; ironically, within eight months, America will show the pathetically deceived Aguinaldo its true color as it invades the fledgling Southeast Asian republic beginning February 4, 1899, of which the resulting savage Filipino-American War will last for a bloody ten years or so.