Paper short abstract:

This paper will analyse the presence in Spanish Manila of Armenian merchants from New Julfa (Iran), focusing on their complicated relationship with the Spanish authorities, their participation in both inter-Asiatic and trans-Pacific exchanges, and their life experiences as told in their own words.

Paper long abstract:

During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries it was forbidden for foreginers to either settle in Manila or trade across the Pacific with Spain's American dominions. However, the Spanish authorities found it very difficult to make such monopolistic restrictitions effective, partly because the merchandise brought to the Philippines by Asian free agents was absolutely necessary for the survival of Manila as a colonial outpost. At the same time the presence of foreigners was a constant source of religious anxiety and ethnic fear. At times the Spanish authorities opted for punitive action against the Chinese, Muslim, Hindu and Armenian communities. This line of action, however, contrasted sharply with that of many colonial merchants who saw it fit to collaborate with foreigners.

This paper will analyse the presence in Manila of Armenian merchants from New Julfa (Iran), and will aim to bring together Spanish primary sources and the rich historiography on the Julfan trade diaspora. Attracted by the silver arriving from Acapulco, Julfans played an important commercial role in the Philippines. The paper will address their complicated relationship with the Spanish authorities, their participation in both inter-Asiatic and trans-Pacific exchanges, and their life experiences as told in their own words before the court of the Spanish Inquisition in Manila.